Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems ANALYSIS

C13-679-101 Processors

( Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems

dalapro VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation. 8550 Ulmerton Road. Largo, Florida 33541. Telephone (813) ANALYSIS 530-2000. In Canada: Paradyne Canada Ltd .. 200 Consumers Road. Fifth Floor. North York. Ontario M2J 4R4. Telephone (416) 494-0453. UPDATE: Paradyne has enhanced its PIXNET line with MODEL(S): PIX; PIXNET; PIXNET/XL. the introduction of PIXNET/FJ(, a fiber optic channel ex FUNCTION: Supports high-speed applications tender that supports local control units located beyond the such as remote printing. check processing. CADI recommended channel distance via fiber optic cable. Also, CAM processing. and CPU-to-CPU data transfer. the PIXNET/XL system now supports 512 terminals. HOST COMPUTERS SUPPORTED: IBM and compatible mainframes. Paradyne, by reputation an innovator in processor and ARCHITECTURE SUPPORTED: Multiple proces modem technology, is a leading supplier of communica sor architecture using nodes. tions network equipment. Paradyne offers direct service OPERATING SOFTWARE: Depends upon the operations throughout the United States, Canada, the configuration. United Kingdom, Japan, and Germany. The company COMPETITION: Amdahl 4705E and 4705T. and IBM 3705 and 3725. PRICE: Prices range from $50.000 to $150.000. depending upon the configuration.

REPORT HIGHLIGHTS PAGE SPECIFICATIONS ...... 103 Configuration ...... 103 Software ...... 104 PRICING ...... 105

provides a broad range of data communications and net working products that includes modems, statistical multi plexers, Tl multiplexers, network management systems, and host channel extension products.

Over the last few years, the company introduced a variety of new products including PIXNETIXL, an intelligent high-speed channel extension processor; PIXNET/FX, a fiber optic channel extender; 3450 and 3470 diagnostic modems, which operate at speeds from 14.4K bps to 19.2K bps; 3056 BSU, a combined DSUICSU for Digital Data Service up to 56K bps; FDX 2400, a 2400 bps full-duplex dial modem; and the 3230 T1 Nodal Processor for larger complex Tl networks. In addition, the company introduced Netcare, a customer service program provid ing technical and management services for data communi cation network daily operations.

PIXNET is a networking control unit that allows local peripherals in remote locations to interact with one or more computers in a "local device" access method. This channel extension technique does not require front-end Paradyne's PIXNET/XL system can simultaneously attach to two separate hosts and support 512 terminals.

DECEMBER 1988 COPYRIGHT © 1988 McGRAW-HILL, INCORPORATED. REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED DATA PRO RESEARCH, DELRAN.NJ 08075 USA C13-679-102 Processors Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems processor hardware or software, nor does it require remote The communications links between the PIX/PIXNET host telecommunications software, such as VT AM or control units operate synchronously, half or full duplex, at BTAM_ speeds to 56K bps. The communications links between the PIXNET/XL nodes operate synchronously, full du PIXNET refers to an entire family of Paradyne products plex, at speeds up to l.544M bps. PIXNET/XL nodes designed to support a wide range of user requirements_ communicate by an exclusive technique called Multi-Link Communication link speeds from 4800 bps to 104M bytes Protocol (MLP), which utilizes multiple communications per second are available in point-to-point configurations_ circuits between nodes to attain a given bandwidth. For a Full networking functionality supports multiple hosts user who needs 112K bps of bandwidth, two circuits are and/or multiple users_ installed between PIXNET /XL nodes. If one of the cir cuits fails, the user loses only that portion of bandwidth. The PIXNET product family consists of the following Graceful degradation occurs, and total bandwidth restora products: tion occurs when the circuit comes back into service. Both RS-232 and V.35 interfaces are supported, as well as PIX A Local Control Unit (LCU), attaches to the byte twisted pair, Telco Tl Service, microwave, satellite, coax, multiplexer channel of an IBM or compatible mainframe and fiber optic. to provide host attachment. A Remote Control Unit (RCU) provides the peripheral device interfaces required to support a wide range of local devices. PIX supports MARKET POSITION point-to-point configurations at speeds from 4800 bps to 56K bps. The Paradyne PIXNET /XL systems perform VT AM-like functions without front-end processor expansion or multi PIXNET: A Master Network Control Unit (MNCU), pro system networking software. Competitive communica vides both application and CPU switching functions for tions processors that perform similar functions with networking requirements. The MNCU supplies ports to appropriate software include the IBM 37X5 and the Am communicate with either additional Network Control dahl 47X5 products. Units (NCUs) or PIX Control Units. The MNCU serves as network monitor, connecting various devices to the IBM's 3737 announcement in June 1987 further validated requested host and application, and monitors the configu the channel extension technology developed by Paradyne. ration file. The IBM 3737, a wide area channel extender, provides host-to-host communications. PIXNET /XL supports not PIXNET/XL: A PIXNET/XL system can simultaneously only VTAM-CTC, but native JES2, JES3, and RSCS as attach to two separate hosts (byte or block multiplexer well. For communications between hosts in different SNA channels) and support 512 terminals and high-speed de networks, Paradyne's software, XL/XPRESS, provides bi vices such as Xerox 9700 and IBM 3800 laser printers. In directional data transfer at speeds above those of front addition, high-speed host-to-host communications can be end processors. accomplished via PIXNET/XL and IBM's CTCA without concern for IBM's normal distance limitation. A PIXNET /XL unit supports a T1 communications link, PRODUcr EVALUATION eight 56K bps links, or sixteen RS-232 links, grouped together and appearing logically as a single communica Paradyne's PIXNET/XL system offers one major advan tions facility. Each microprocessor-based PIXNET/XL tage: VTAM-like switching functions, enabling users to control unit can have 4 million bytes of global memory. switch from one application to another without the ex PIXNET/XL Networking, a function of the nodal soft pense and complexity of adding VT AM, TCAM, or ware, allows both application switching and CPU switch BT AM software to the host. In addition, NCP is not ing functions among nodes. This allows a single, remote required in the front end, therefore eliminating the need printer to receive data from multiple hosts, or central for additional front-end processors, equipped with NCP terminals to switch sessions between hosts in various lo software, to support remote terminals. Unlike traditional cations. front-end processors, PIXNET/OCL supports high-speed laser printers, item processors, tape drives, card readers, PIXNET/FX A PIXNET/FX fiber optic channel extender and punches. lengthens the IBM (plug compatible) byte or block multi plexer channel to 1.24 miles (2 kilometers) via fiber optic The PIX and PIXNET systems use Paradyne's version of cable. It maintains Paradyne's tradition of host IBM's Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC) protocol. transparency-no software or hardware modifications Data compression/compaction techniques enhance high while providing transmission speeds up to 104M bps. speed line efficiency; built-in error control and recovery PIXNET /FX supports the same channel-attached devices procedures are standard. as PIXNET/XL.

( PIXNET/XL utilizes an X.25-like HDLC communication Transparency enhances the PIXNET/XL advantage. Its method between nodes. This bit-oriented, full-duplex pro communications functions are transparent to both the tocol packages data into packets for transmission to other user and the host(s); the system sees various peripherals as nodes. Packet sizes vary from 512 to 4K bytes depending local devices, addresses them individually, and achieves on devices supported and throughput requirements. The virtual simultaneous operation. frame control procedures reflect the CCITT X.25 LAPB standard. Multi-Link Protocol (MLP) software allows The PIXNET RCU replaces an IBM-compatible device PIXNET/XL to utilize 16 communications lines as one controller (e.g., an IBM 3274 terminal controller) when transmission group. Sixteen lines or T1 ports may be Paradyne peripherals and CRTs are used. PIXNET sys connected in parallel. If a link fails, traffic is automatically tem users must configure all applicable device controllers, retransmitted using other available links until the problem used in a traditional IBM environment, when non link becomes operational. Paradyne devices are required.

SPECIFICA TIONS

DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: PIX-March 1976 (as laser printers, magnetic tape units, and clustered CRTs/ PIX I); PIXNET-fourth-quarter 1979; PIXNET / printers emulating 3270s. Paradyne's own line of periph XL-December 1984; PIXNET/FX-November 1987. erals or IBM peripherals (or compatibles) can be used. DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: PIX-April 1976 (as PIX I); PIXNET-February 1980; PIXNET/XL-March In addition to the microprocessor and memory, each con 1985; PIXNET/FX-December 1987. trol unit comes equipped with a control panel, a cassette NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Over 6,000. or diskette and fixed disk drives for program loading, a SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation. terminal for network management, and various communi cations adapters. The communications lines use external modems or T1 multiplexers, also manufactured by Para CONFIGURATION dyne and supplied as part of the system, if desired. The Networking Release 1 software provides both CPU The Local Control Unit (LCU) and the Remote Control and application switching; multisystem networking soft Unit (RCU) comprise the primary components of the ware is not necessary. PIXNET/XL virtual data link system. The design is flexi ble; each node can be configured to serve as both an LCU and an RCU simultaneously. TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS The PIX and PIXNET systems use Paradyne's version of The LCU is co-located with the host computer and con IBM's Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC) with con nects to the clock or byte multiplexer channel of an IBM trol and recovery techniques to provide transmission be System/360, 370, 303X, 308X, 309X, 4300, or compatible tween control units at standard rates of 4800 bps to 56K computer. Simple sign-on/sign-off procedures direct appli bps. High-speed satellite transmission has been used with cation switching. Multiple LCUs can attach to the same PIX systems with no time delay problem. In fact, some mainframe, or multiple mainframes can attach to the users have reported response time improvements using same LCU. An LCU-to-LCU configuration, utilizing PIX/PIXNET. Interfaces supported are RS-232 and V.35. IBM's CTCA or Paradyne's XL/XPRESS software, facili tates host-to-host communications. The PIXNET/XL system uses HDLC protocol, providing transmission between control units at speeds of 9600 bps The RCU, positioned remotely from the host, supports to T1 rates. By using Paradyne's proprietary Multi-Link remote devices. A synchronous link of 4800 bps to Protocol (MLP) software, 16 lines configure as one trans 2,048M bps between the RCU and LCU provides host mission group. The traffic load will be routed through communication. Multiple RCUs connect to a single LCU, available links to meet the application's bandwidth. If a or multiple LCUs connect to a single RCU. link fails, the system loses no data and requires no opera tor intervention. When the line is restored, the links again The PIXNET products allow remote peripherals to com share traffic. municate with the host as if they were channel connected. Each peripheral has its own system address, and commu PIXNET/FX uses fiber optic cables to extend the IBM nications are interrupt driven. The system, a virtual data byte or block multiplexer channel to 1.24 miles (2 km.) at link, provides a transparent interface between the host a maximum data transfer rate of 1.4 million bytes per and remotely located card readers/punches, line printers, second.

Configuration

Typical PIXNET/XL IPoint-to-Point)

IBM- Channel T1 Bconnections compatible I=====::;;;;;;;;;;;':;:==f LCU I----.:;~--...:...:.....------i RCU I to Local type Processor Attachment I I Control Units Channel Attachment

Typical PIXNET IMultihost Network)

Connections CU : Conn~ctions / RCU TConnections to peripherals to peripherals I to peripherals I-----~ B ~,------., L---.-...I,.L

IBM- ~-----Z~ compatible t=====t LCU '------i NCU Connections Processor to peripherals ~----I V/~~ ~. IBM MNCU LCU t=====t compatible Processor _____ A/~ IBM- VV J compatible 1====1 LCU Processor

r-- c, T ,. Connections I Connections Connections : RCU to peripherals RCU : to peripherals to peripherals I .L ..L

Maximum number of addressable devices per PIXNET system is limited only by line speed and throughput considerations. Maximum number of other control units directly attachable to NCU is 13. Maximum number of devices (peripherals or other control units) directly attachable to LCU depends on types of devices and line speeds.

SOFTWARE terns are supported, including IMS, CICS, TSO, GBAS wift, Environ/I, Westi, and Roscoe. Paradyne provides control unit software for configuration requirements. Code is resident in memory and consists of The PIXNET systems also offer Remote Console Support modules for each connected device type. One module type (RCS), which provides operators with functionally equiv supports multiple devices of the same type. Paradyne pro alent facilities currently available to Remote Job Entry vides off-the-shelf software and firmware for various ap (RJE) terminal operators, via Paradyne's RCS software. plications. The system supports DOS/VSE/POWER, MVS/JES2, and OS/HASP. PIXNET systems operate under all IBM and Because the host sees all devices as local devices, they can compatible spooling systems including DOS/POWER, run with, but do not require, telecommunications access VS/POWER, POWER/VS, GRASP, GRASP/VS, methods such as BTAM, QTAM, TCAM, or VTAM. The SPRINT, ASAP, ESF, THE SPOOLER, HASP, JES, JES2, LCU simulation of the multiplexer channel/peripheral in and JES3. terface operates under any IBM operating system. Remote site telecommunications software is eliminated. Terminals Paradyne's software product XL/XPRESS provides high running under existing IBM and compatible software sys- speed bidirectional data transfer for IBM (or compatible host-to-host communications). Combined with PIXNET/

XL, XL/XPRESS transfers large volumes of data between Card Punch-IBM 1442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via hosts in multiple locations at Tl and greater rates. 3505). Check Sorter-IBM 3890. XL/XPRESS is not a file transfer package, but rather a CRTs/Printers-IBM 3270: 3278, 3279, 3284, 3285, 3286, transport mechanism. Customers are responsible for pro 3287, 3288, 3289, etc. (via 3274-IA/aB/ID, 3174-IL). viding VT AM file transfer applications. XL/XPRESS Laser Printer-IBM 3800 (Models 1,2,3,6, and 8), 3827, must be installed as a VT AM application. Since XLI 3835. XPRESS is completely transparent, no modifications to Magnetic Tape-IBM 3420 (800/1600/6250 bpi). the operating system, VT AM, or VT AM application soft ware are necessary. Other devices supported include Xerox, Siemens, Data graphix, and STC laser printers, Kodak Komstar and Da XL/XPRESS supports the following applications: high tagraphix output-microfilm devices, IBM CTCA, IBM speed data transfer within an SNA network and between Token Ring, asynchronous terminals, personal computers, multiple SNA networks; transfer of data requiring speeds and various digital plotters. higher than those achievable through traditional ap proaches; simultaneous cross-domain terminal traffic and bulk data transfer between sites. PRICING The PIXNET and related peripherals can be purchased or PERIPHERALS are available on various lease plans. Pricing for a PIXNET communications system is between $50,000 and $120,000, The following IBM peripheral devices are supported: depending upon the configuration. Paradyne directly ser vices all products through a nationwide service organiza Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2520, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. tion. A national dispatch center operates 24 hours a day, Line Printer-IBM 1403 (via 2821), 3211 (via 3811), seven days a week. 0 3203/5, 4245, 4248. (

Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The PIXNET line of communications proces UPDATE: Since this report was last updated, Paradyne has sors are virtual data link systems that permit increased the amount of global memory of the PIXNET remote peripherals to operate as if they were Control Unit from 2 to 3.5 million bytes. The number of in the same room with the host computer. terminals supported by the PIXNET/XL systems has also Control units are used to access the multi been increasedfrom 256 to 384 terminals. We also talked to plexer channel of an IBM-compatible host several PIXNET users to get their reactions to the systems. for a wide variety of peripherals, including line printers, magnetic tape units, 3270- Paradyne, based in Largo, Florida, is a leading supplier of type CRT clusters, laser printers, and CAD/ communications network equipment. It has a reputation of CAM devices. Multiple host switching and being an innovator and leader in modem technology. Para application switching within a host are sup dyne offers direct service operations throughout the United ported. In addition, host-to-host communi States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Germa- cations is supported using IBM's CTC ny. The company provides a broad range ofdata communi functionality. The systems are transparent, cations and networking products that include modems, and do not require hardware or software data encryption devices, multiplexers, network manage modifications. Front-end hardware/soft ment systems, distributed data processing systems, com ware and host telecommunications access munications networks, packet switches, intelligent methods, such as TCAM or VTAM, are also terminal controllers, and peripherals. The peripherals in not required. clude such items as terminals and printers. Over the last 1:> FUNCTION: Supports high-speed applica tions such as remote printing, check pro cessing, CAD/CAM processing, and CPU to-CPU data transfer. HOST COMPUTERS SUPPORTED: IBM and compatible mainframes. ( ARCHITECTURE SUPPORTED: Multiple processor architecture using nodes. OPERATING SOFTWARE: Depends upon the configuration. COMPETITION: Amdahl 4705E and 4705T, and IBM 3705 and 3725. PRICE: Prices range from $50,000 to $150,000, depending upon the configuration.

CHARACTERISTICS VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation, 8550 Ulmerton Road, Largo, Florida 33541. Telephone (813) 530-2000. In Cana da: Paradyne Canada Ltd., 200 Consumers Road, Fifth Floor, North York, Ontario MlJ 4R4. Telephone (416) 494-0453. DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: PIX-March 1976 (as PIX I); PIXNET-4th quarter 1979; PIXNET/XL-De cember 1984. DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: PIX-April 1976 (as PIX I); PIXNET-February 1980; PIXNET/XL-March 1985. NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Over 6,000.

SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation.

CONFIGURATION

Paradyne's PIXNET/XL allows remote peripherals to function The primary components of a PIXNET virtual data link as if they were in the same room with the host. This system system are the Local Control Unit (LCU), the Remote supports up to 384 terminals. Control Unit (RCU), and, for PIXNET systems, the Master ~

J> few years, the company introduced a variety of new prod .. Network Control Unit (MNCU). Each control unit is micro ucts including the PIXNET/XL, a high-speed communica processor-based. tions processor; various VHS modems, which operate at The LCU is co-located with the host computer and can speeds from 14,400 bps to 19,200 bps; the Analysis 550, a connect to the multiplexer channel of an IBM 360, 370, network management system; PDX Messenger, a multi 303X, 308X, 309X, 4300, or compatible computer. Applica function communications workstation; HDX 12000, a tions switching is done using simple sign-on/sign-off proce 12,000 bps dial modem; and FDX 2400, a 2400 bps full dures. Multiple LCUs can be connected to the same main frame. Computer-to-computer communications can be duplex modem. facilitated by an LCU-to-LCU link utilizing IBM's CTCA. PIXNET is a virtual data link communications system that The RCU is positioned remotely from the host and connects allows local and remote peripherals to interact with one or to the host via an LCU. RCU-to-RCU and RCU-to-MNCU more computers in a "local device" access method. This links can also be established. The link between two control units is synchronous at rates of between 4800 and 1.S44M "channel extension" technique does not require front-end bps. Multiple RCUs/MNCUs can be connected to an LCU, hardware or software, nor does it require remote host and multiple RCUs can be connected to an MNCU. The telecommunications software. In fact, there are no required RCU can connect to only one other control unit, establishing host modifications, thus making its host operating system a point-to-point connection. The MNCU has up to 13 ports available for connection of other control units, and provides independent. capabilities for multiple-host switching and selection of applications within a host. Routing is done automatically by PIXNET refers to an entire family of Paradyne products the MNCU, which also balances the network using dynamic designed to support a wide range of user requirements. A line utilization statistics and associated line weighing fac range from 4800 bps communication links to full T1 speeds tors, and provides backup for line failure. is supported in point-to-point configurations. When multi The PIXNET system allows remote peripherals to commu ple hosts and multiple remote users are involved, full nicate with the host as if they were directly connected. Each networking functionality is provided. peripheral has its own system address and communications are interrupt driven. The system is a virtual data link and provides a transparent interface between the host and re PIXNET includes a variety of microprocessor-based con motely located card readers/punches, line printers, magnet trol units which are configured for each user. A Local ic tape units, and clustered CRTs/printers emulating 3270s. Control Unit (LCU) attaches to the multiplexer channel of Paradyne has its own line of peripherals, or IBM peripher an IBM or compatible mainframe to provide the host als can be used. attachment. A Remote Control Unit (RCU) provides the In addition to the microprocessor and memory, each control peripheral device interfaces required to support a wide unit is equipped with a control panel, a cassette or floppy range of "local device" support. When networking is re disk drive for program loading, and various adapters to quired, a Master Network Control Unit (MNCU) provides interface the CPU, communications lines, and peripherals. the user with the ability to have both applications and CPU The communications lines use external modems, which are manufactured by Paradyneand can be supplied as part of switching functions. When extremely high communica the system. Each peripheral port provides for direct memory tions speeds are required, a PIXNET /XL unit is capable of access to its control unit. An LCU, in addition to its attach supporting a T1 communications link or up to eight 56KB ment to the host, can support a number oflocal card readers, links as a single communications facility. Each PIXNET CRTs, and line printers, which normally interface directly to control unit is microprocessor-based and has up to 3.5 the multiplexer channel, saving a control unit position on the multiplexer channel. The RCU is physically capable of million bytes of global memory. connecting a variety of peripherals, and the MNCU pro vides 13 ports for connection of control units. The maximum Peripheral devices can attach directly to either the LCU or number of connections that can actually be handled is the RCU. The Master Network Control Unit supplies established by throughput, which is difficult to calculate even when the high-speed line rate is known because the "ports" to communicate with either additional NCUs or controllers use data compression techniques. PIX Control Units. The MNCU serves as the network monitor, connecting various devices to the correct host and TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS application requested, and monitors the configuration file. Transmission between control units is synchronous at stan dard rates of 4800 bps to 1.S44M bps. Transfer is usually A PIXNET/XL system is capable of attaching simulta full-duplex, but can be half-duplex. Paradyne's Synchro neously to two separate channels and can support up to 384 nous Data Link Control protocol (SDLC) is used with Go terminals. High-speed devices such as Xerox 9700 and Back-N error control and recovery techniques. High-speed IBM 3800 laser printers are also supported. In addition, satellite transmission has been used with PIX systems, and time delay is not a problem. In fact, some users have high-speed host-to-host communications can be accom reported response time improvements using PIXNET. plished via XL and IBM's CTCA without concern for the normal distance limitation imposed by IBM. SOFTWARE Most devices capable of direct channel attachment can be The software in the control units is provided by Paradyne for supported through PIXNET. In addition, Paradyne offers a the required configuration. Code is resident in memory and full line of peripherals which include CRTs, printers, and consists of modules for each type. of connected device. One module type supports multiple devices of the same. type. magnetic tape units which directly attach to PIXNET Paradyne has "off-the-shelf" software and firmware for the without the standalone controller requirement. 1:> various applications.

Paradyne PIXN ET Communications Systems

Configuration

Typical PIXNET/XL (Point·to·Point)

connections IBM· T1 Channel RCU I to Local type compatible LCU Processor Attachment G I Control Units Channel Attachment

Typical PIXNET (Multihost Network)

: Connections Connections RCU to peripherals I to peripherals

IBM· compatible t==~ LCU NCU Connections Processor to peripherals

IBM· LCU F===t compatible Processor

IBM· compatible F===t LCU Processor

Connections I Connections Connections : to peripherals RCU : to peripherals to peripherals I RCU

t> The communications link between the control units oper ~ The host software is unaware of the communications lines or ates synchronously, half- or full-duplex, at speeds up to foreign peripherals and therefore requires no telecommuni 1.544M bps. cations access method, such as BTAM, QTAM, TCAM, or VTAM. The LCU simulation of the multiplexer channel/ peripheral interface will operate under any IBM operating COMPETITIVE POSITION system.

The Paradyne PIXNET systems have a unique ability to do Remote site telecommunications software is eliminated. Ter VTAM-like functions without needing remote VTAM soft minals running under most existing IBM and compatible ware in the host. Other communications processors that software systems are supported, including IMS, CICS, perform similar functions with appropriate software such TSO, GBASwift, Environ/I, Westi, Roscoe, and others. as remote VT AM running in the host include the IBM 3705 The PIXNET systems also have a Remote Console Support and 3725, and the Amdahl 4705 and 4705E. (RCS) feature that allows remote operators to use the same type of facilities currently available to Remote Job Entry With a maximum memory capacity of 3.5 million bytes, (RJE) terminal operators. The necessary RCS software is ( provided by Paradyne. RCS is designed to interface with each individual PIXNET/XL Control Unit has more mem- unmodified IBM operating system software. It will operate ory than an IBM 3705-80 (which has 256K bytes), an IBM with 3270-type CRT consoles. RCS provides facilities that 3705-11 (which has 512K bytes), or an IBM 3725 (which has t> are functionally equivalent to those available to the RJE ~

DECEMBER 1986 © 1986 DAT APRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ OE!075 USA REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED C13-879-104 Processors Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems t> 2M bytes). As a front-end processor, a PIXNET/XL is tape drive support. Good was given for Ease ofinstallation, channel-attachable to two hosts; the IBM 3705-11 is chan Ease of Operation, and Ease of Expansion. Hardware Reli- nel-attachable to up to four hosts; Amdahl 4705E is chan ability ratings were rated Good and Very Good, with this,- / nel-attachable to up to six hosts; and the IBM 3725 Serves user stating that he had never had one problem with the up to eight. As a remote line concentrator, a PIXNET/XL XL. Quality of Manufacturer's Software and Firmware got unit serves multiple hosts, as do the IBM 3725 and the a Fair and a Good with the Fair coming from the man who Amdahl 4705E and 4705T. had problems with the tape drive. Good was also given to the Quality of Manufacturer's Maintenance Service and ADVANTAGES AND RESTRICTIONS Technical Support. Both men felt that when they had contacted Paradyne with problems, the company was re- A major advantage of a Paradyne PIXNET system is that sponsive to them. its hardware capabilities provide VTAM-like switching functions, enabling users to switch to different applications Both users were involved in the decision to go with Para without the expense and complexity of adding VTAM, dyne. They gave the following reasons for choosing PIX- t> TCAM, or BTAM software to the host computer. In addi tion, NCP is not required in the front end. The PIXNET system uses a Paradyne version of IBM's Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC) protocol, and thus also pro ~ terminal operator. Support is provided for DOS/VS/POW vides the advantages of SNA. Data compression/compac ER, MVS/JES2, and OS/HASP. PIX operates under all tion techniques are used to enhance high-speed line IBM and compatible spooling systems including DOS/ POWER, VS/POWER, POWER/VS, GRASP, GRASP/ efficiency, and built-in error control and recovery proce VS, SPRINT, ASAP, ESF, THE SPOOLER, HASP, JES, dures are standard. and JES2.

Another PIXNET advantage is its transparency. The com In conjunction with the MNCU, PIXNET's Administrator Console software provides for network control, including munications functions of PIXNET are transparent to the session establishment, configuration control, configuration user and the host(s); all operations with the various periph testing and reporting, and statistics gathering and status erals proceed as if they are local devices. Each peripheral is reporting. addressed individually, and virtual simultaneous operation is achieved. PERIPHERALS The following IBM peripheral devices are supported: Other advantages include reduced line costs because the concentration capabilities of the system require only one Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2520, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. line to the host, and remote job entry accommodated by Line Printer-IBM 1403 (via 2821), 3211 (via 3811), specialized software/firmware. 3203/5, 4245, 4248. CAD/CAM-IBM 5080, 3250. Page Printers-IBM 3800. The PIXNET RCU can be used to replace an IBM-compat Card Punch-IBM 1442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via ible device controller (e.g., an IBM 3274 terminal control 3505). ler) when Paradyne peripherals and CRTs are used. Users Check Sorter-IBM 3890. of the PIXNET system must configure all applicable device CRTs/Printers-IBM 3270: 3278 (via 3274-1A/IB/lD), controllers, used in a traditional IBM environment, when 3284,3286,3288,3285,3287,3289, etc. non-Paradyne devices are required. The following Paradyne peripheral devices are supported:

USER REACTION Line Printers-400 Ipm, 900 Ipm, 1200 Ipm. Page Printer-60 pages/minute. Magnetic Tape-1600 to 6250 bpi. Paradyne provided Datapro with a list of users to contact CRT Operator Console-l,920-character screen (3270 for a user reaction. We were able to talk with two users of type). the PIXNET/XL system. One user also had the PIXNET Paradyne Display System (PDX)-functional replacements system installed. The length of time that the systems had for IBM 3270 displays, printers, and controllers. been installed ranged from seven months to two-and-a-half Other devices supported are: years. Xerox 8700, 9700 laser printer, Kodak Komstar computer The users had the PIXNET/XL system because of its output-microfilm device, Siemens laser printer, IBM unique ability to allow remote and local peripherals to CTCA, asynchronous terminals, personal computers, and interact with one or more hosts in a "local access" method. various digital plotters. Front-end hardware or software is not required, nor is PRICING remote host telecommunications software for this "channel extension" technique. The PIXNET and related peripherals can be purchased or are available on various lease plans. Pricing for a PIXNET In asking these users to rate their systems for Overall communications system is between $50,000 and $150,000, depending upon the configuration. Paradyne directly ser Performance, the responses ranged from Fair to Excellent. vices all of their products through a nationwide service The user who gave the Fair rating did so because of organization. A national dispatch center operates 24 hours/ continuing problems that he was having with the system's day, seven days a week ••

1:> NET/XL: the system was flexible; applications met their specifically related to Paradyne, is that this system compli needs; there are no software requirements on the main cates the data processing environment by introducing addi frame; and the system was not distance dependent for tional vendors' hardware and software that makes problem degradation, i.e., distance did not effect the performance. resolution more difficult. He went on to say that it was Both users had looked at Network Systems' HYPERchan something that had to be put up with if one wanted the nel, but felt that PIXNET/XL best suited their needs. capabilities offered by PIXNET/XL.

When asked for advantages or disadvantages of the system, one user stated that "it is a unique system and serves a In asking if these users had any advice for potential buyers, specific purpose that you either need or you don't." The one user commented that "it is important to know exactly other user felt that PIXNET/XL lived up to its specs and what you will be running on the system before it is in speeds. In discussing disadvantages, the tape drive issue stalled; if you change your plans, the specs will also have to was brought up. This user said that the tape drive was not a be changed by Paradyne." Users should not assume that all Paradyne product, but one used by the company, and devices are the same or that they will fit the specs (or Paradyne was trying to get the vendor to fix the problem. parameters) set up by Paradyne. Paradyne has to make The other user is planning on installing the tape drive software changes, so users should be certain about their system, but did not like the idea of being forced to use the plans. When asked if they would recommend this system to unit provided by Paradyne. Users cannot go out and get others, one user gave an enthusiastic "Absolutely," while one from another vendor. Another problem, although not the other user said yes. 0

/ C13-679-101 Processors

( Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Paradyne's PIXNET is a virtual data link sys UPDATE: This report is being updated to reflect changes in tem that allows remote peripherals to oper Paradyne's PIXNET Communications Systems line oj ate as if they were in the same room with the products. Paradyne has added the PIXNET/XL to its line oj host computer. Various control units provide communications processors, deleted the Integrated Com access to the multiplexer channel of an I BM munications Processor as one oJthe PIXNET components, compatible host for a wide variety of periph and changed the Network Control Unit to the Master Net erals, including card readers, magnetic tape work Control Unit. These additions and changes are reflect units, line printers, and 3270-type CRT clus ed in this updated report. ters. Multiple host switching and application switching within a host are supported. The Paradyne Corporation, based in Largo, Florida since 1969, system is transparent, and no hardware or is a worldwide supplier of communications networks. The software modifications are required. Front company has direct service operations throughout the end hardware/software and host telecom United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, and munications access methods, such as Germany. Paradyne offers a wide range of data communi TCAM or VTAM, are not required. cations and networking products that include the following: modems, data encryption devices, multiplexers, network FUNCTION: May support high-speed appli management systems, distributed data processing systems, cations such as remote printing, check pro communications networks, packet switching, intelligent cessing, CAD/CAM processing, and terminal controllers, and peripherals. The peripherals in CPU-to-CPU data transfer. clude such items as terminals, printers, card readers, and HOST COMPUTERS SUPPORTED: IBM and disk drives. Over the past year, Paradyne has introduced compatible mainframes. various new products such as the PIXNET/XL, a high ARCHITECTURE SUPPORTED: Multiple speed communications processor; various VHS modems, processor architecture using nodes. which operate at speeds from 14,400 bps to 19,200 bps; the OPERATING SOFTWARE: Depends upon Analysis 550, a network management system; PDX Mes-I:> the configuration. COMPETITION: Amdahl 4705E and 4705T, and IBM 3705 and 3725. PRICE: Prices range from $50,000 to $150,000, depending upon the configuration.

CHARACTERISTICS VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation, 8550 Ulmerton Road, Largo, Florida 33540. Telephone (813) 530-2000. In Cana da: Paradyne Canada Ltd., 200 Consumers Road, Fifth Floor, North York, Ontario M2J 4R4. Telephone (416) 494-0453. DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: PIX-March 1976 (as PIX I); PIXNET-4th quarter 1979; PIXNET/XL-De cember 1984.

DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: PIX-April 1976 (as PIX I); PIXNET-February 1980; PIXNET/XL-March 1985. NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Over 5,000.

SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation.

CONFIGURATION

The primary components of a PIXNET virtual data link system are the Local Control Unit (LCU), the Remote Control Unit (RCU), and, for PIXNET systems, the Master ( Network Control Unit (MNCU). Each control unit is micro processor-based. Paradyne's PIXNET-XL system extends the block or byte multiplexer channel of IBM mainframes to connect remote The LCU is co-Iocated with the host computer and can high-speed devices. connect to the multiplexer channel of an IBM 360, 370, •

JULY 1985 © 1985 OATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION. DELRAN. NJ 08075 USA REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED C13-679-102 Processors Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems t> senger, a multifunction communications workstation; ~ 303X, 308X, 4300, or compatible computer. Applications ~ .. HDX 12000, a 12,000 bps dial modem; and FDX 2400, a switching is done using simple sign-on/sign-off procedures. 2400 bps full-duplex modem. Multiple LCUs can be connected to the same mainframe. Computer-to-computer communications can be facilitated by an LCU-to-LCU link utilizing IBM's CTCA. PIXNET is a virtual data link communications system that allows local and remote peripherals to interact with one or The RCU is positioned remotely from the host and connects to the host via an LCU. RCU-to-RCU and RCU-to-MNCU more computers in a "local device" access method. This links can also be established. The link between two control "channel extension" technique does not require front-end units is synchronous at rates of between 4800 and 1.544M hardware or software, nor does it require remote host bps. Multiple RCUs/MNCUs can be connected to an LCU, telecommunications software. In fact, there are no required and multiple RCUs can be connected to an MNCU. The host modifications, thus making its host operating system RCU can connect to only one other control unit, establishing a point-to-point connection. The MNCU has up to 13 ports independent. available for connection of other control units, and provides capabilities for multiple-host switching and selection of PIXNET refers to an entire family of Paradyne products applications within a host. Routing is done automatically by designed to support a wide range of user requirements. A the MNCU, which also balances the network using dynamic line utilization statistics and associated line weighing fac- range from 4800 bps communication links to full T 1 speeds tors, and provides backup for line failure. is supported in point-to-point configurations. When multi ple hosts and multiple remote users are involved, full The PIXNET system allows remote peripherals to commu- networking functionality is provided. nicate with the host as if they were directly connected. Each peripheral has its own system address and communications are interrupt driven. The system is a virtual data link and PIXNET includes a variety of microprocessor-based con provides a transparent interface between the host and re- trol units which are configured for each user. A Local motely located card readers/punches, line printers, magnet- Control Unit (LCU) attaches to the multiplexer channel of ic tape units, and clustered CRTs/printers emulating 3270s. Paradyne has its own line of peripherals, or IBM peripher- an IBM or compatible mainframe to provide the host als can be used. attachment. A Remote Control Unit (RCU) provides the peripheral device interfaces required to support a wide In addition to the microprocessor and memory, each control range of "local device" support. When networking is re unit is equipped with a control panel, a cassette or floppy disk drive for program loading, and various adapters to quired, a Master Network Control Unit (MNCU) provides interface the CPU, communications lines, and peripherals. the user with the ability to have both applications and CPU The commnnications lines use external modems, which are switching functions. When extremely high communica manufactured by Paradyne and can be supplied as part of tions speeds are required, a PIXNET/XL unit is capable of the system. Each peripheral port provides for direct memory access to its control unit. An LCU, in addition to its attach- supporting a Tl communications link or up to eight 56KB ment to the host, can support a number of local card readers, links as a single communications facility. Each PIXNET CRTs, and line printers, which normally interface directly to control unit is microprocessor-based and has up to two the multiplexer channel, saving a control unit position on the million bytes of global memory. multiplexer channel. The RCU is physically capable of connecting a variety of peripherals, and the MNCU provides 13 ports for connection of control units. The maximum Peripheral devices can attach directly to either the LCU or number of connections that can actually be handled is the RCU. The Master Network Control Unit supplies established by throughput, which is difficult to calculate "ports" to communicate with either additional MNCUs or even when the high-speed line rate is known because the PIX Control Units. The MNCU serves as the network controllers use data compression techniques. monitor, connecting various devices to the correct host and TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS application requested, and monitors the configuration file. Transmission between control units is synchronous at standard rates of 4800 bps to 1.544M bps. Transfer is usually A PIXNET/XL system is capable of attaching simulta full-duplex, but can be half-duplex. Paradyne's Synchro- neously to two separate channels and can support up to 256 nous Data Link Control protocol (SDLC) is used with Go- terminals. High-speed devices such as Xerox 9700 and Back-N error control and recovery techniques. High-speed satellite transmission has been used with PIX systems, and IBM 3800 laser printers are also supported. In addition, time delay is not a problem. In fact, some users have high-speed host-to-host communications can be accom reported response time improvements using PIXNET. plished via XL and IBM's CTCA without concern for the normal distance limitation imposed by IBM. SOFTWARE The software in the control units is provided by Paradyne for the required configuration. Code is resident in memory and Most devices capable of direct channel attachment can be consists of modules for each type of connected device. One supported through PIXNET. In addition, Paradyne offers a module type supports multiple devices of the same type. full line of peripherals which include CRTs, printers, and Paradyne has "off-the-shelf" software and firmware for the magnetic tape units which directly attach to PIXNET various applications. without the standalone controller requirement. The host software is unaware of the communications lines or foreign peripherals and therefore requires no telecommuni- " cations access method, such as BTAM, QTAM, TCAM, or The communications link between the control units oper / VTAM. The LCU simulation of the multiplexer channell " ates synchronously, half- or full-duplex, at speeds up to peripheral interface will operate under any IBM operating 1.544M bps. t> system. ~

( Configuration Typicai PIX-II (Point-to-Point)

Card I PrinterUne II Reader I

r;- I Connections IBM- Channel RCU I to Local/Remote compatible LCU L Peripherals Processor Attachment I f.L.

Typical PIXnet (Multi-host Network)

Connections RCU Co nnect ions to peripherals to peripherals

IBM compatible LCU Connections Processor to peripherals

IBM LCU compatible Processor

IBM compatible ICP Processor

Connections Connections Connections to peripherals RCU RCU to peripherals to peripherals

1> COMPETITIVE POSITION Remote site telecommunications software is eliminated. Ter minals running under most existing IBM and compatible The Paradyne PIXNET systems are unique in their ability software systems are supported, including IMS, CICS, TSO, GBASwift, Environ/I, Westi, Roscoe, and others. to perform VTAM-like functions without remote VTAM software in the host. Other communications processors that perform similar functions with appropriate software The PIXNET systems also have a Remote Console Support such as remote VT AM running in the host include the IBM (RCS) feature that allows remote operators to use the same 3705 and 3725, and the Amdahl 4705 and 4705E. type of facilities currently available to Remote Job Entry (RJE) terminal operators. The necessary RCS software is With a maximum memory capacity of two million bytes, provided by Paradyne. RCS is designed to interface with unmodified IBM operating system software. It will operate each individual PIXNET Control Unit has more memory with 3270-type CRT consoles. RCS provides facilities that than an IBM 3705-80 (which has 256K bytes), an IBM are functionally equivalent to those available to the RJE 3705-II or Amdahl 4705 (each of which has 512K bytes), or terminal operator. Support is provided for DOS/VS/POW an IBM 3725 or Amdahl 4705E (each of which has 1M ER, MVS/JES2, and OS/HASP. PIX operates under all IBM and compatible spooling systems including DOS/ bytes). As a front-end processor, a PIXNET is channel POWER, VS/POWER, POWER/VS, GRASP, GRASP/ attachable to two hosts; the IBM 3705 and Amdahl 4705 VS, SPRINT, ASAP, ESF, THE SPOOLER, HASP, JES, are each channel-attachable to up to four hosts; the Amdahl and JES2.

JULY 1985 © 1985 OAT APRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED C13-679-104 Processors Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems t:> 4705E serves up to six, and the IBM 3725 serves up to ~ In conjunction with the MNCU, PIXNET's Administrator eight. As a remote line concentrator, a PIXNET unit serves Console software provides for network control, including session establishment, configuration control, configuration multiple hosts, as do the IBM 3705 and 3725, but the testing and reporting, and statistics gathering and status Amdahl 4705 serves only one host. reporting.

ADVANTAGES AND RESTRICTIONS PERIPHERALS A major advantage of a Paradyne PIXNET system is that The following IBM peripheral devices are supported: its hardware capabilities provide VTAM-like switching Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2520, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. functions, enabling users to switch to different applications Line Printer-IBM. 1403 (via 2821), 3211 (via 3811), without the expense and complexity of adding VT AM, 3203/5, 4245. TCAM, or BTAM software to the host computer. In addi CAD/CAM-IBM 5080, 3250. tion, NCP is not required in the front end. The PIXNET Page Printers-IBM 3800. Card Punch-IBM 1442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via system uses a Paradyne version of IBM's Synchronous 3505). Data Link Control (SDLC) protocol, and thus also pro Check Sorter-IBM 3890. vides the advantages of SNA. Data compression/compac CRTs/Printers-IBM 3270: 3278 (via 3274-1A/IB/lD), tion techniques are used to enhance high-speed line 3284,3286,3288,3285,3287,3289. efficiency, and built-in error control and recovery proce The following Paradyne peripheral devices are supported: dures are standard. Line Printers-400 Ipm, 600 Ipm, 900 Ipm, 1200 Ipm. Another PIXNET advantage is its transparency. The com Page Printer-60 pages/minute. munications functions of PIXNET are transparent to the Magnetic Tape-1600 to 6250 bpi. CRT Operator Console-l,920-character screen (3270 user and the host(s); all operations with the various periph type). erals proceed as if they are local devices. Each peripheral is Paradyne Display System (PDX)-functional replacements addressed individually, and virtual simultaneous operation for IBM 3270 displays, printers, and controllers. is achieved. Other devices supported are:

Other advantages include reduced line costs because the Xerox 8200, 9700 laser printer, Kodak Komstar computer concentration capabilities of the system require only one output-microfilm device, Siemens laser printer, IBM line to the host, and remote job entry accommodated by CTCA, asynchronous terminals, personal computers, and specialized software/firmware. various digital plotters. PRICING The PIXNET RCU can be used to replace an IBM-compat ible device controller (e.g., an IBM 3274 terminal control The PIXNET and related peripherals can be purchased or ler) when Paradyne peripherals and CRTs are used. Users are available on various lease plans. Pricing for a PIXNET ofthe PIXNET system must configure all applicable device communications system is between $50,000 and $150,000, depending upon the configuration. Paradyne directly ser controllers, used in a traditional IBM environment, when vices all of their products through a nationwide service non-Paradyne devices are required. organization. A national dispatch center operates 24 hours/ day, seven days a week .• USER REACTION

Paradyne provided Datapro with a list of users to contact for their applications. All three are involved with the for a user reaction. We were able to talk to three of these transfer of data at very high speeds, and Paradyne's users who had either the PIXNET or PIXNET /XL sys PIXNET system met this need. Other reasons given were: tems. All of the users had the PIXNET system, and one the right price, fast channel response time, switching capa user had also recently installed the PIXNET /XL. The users bilities, ability to satisfy a need that IBM couldn't, and the were a large insurance company, a retail drug company, fact that it allowed them to provide the type of service that and a large bank. The length of time that the systems had their end users needed. been installed ranged from eight months for the PIX NET/XL, to six years for one of the PIXNET systems. One user explained how he had LCUs in the data center with an RCU and CRT in the computer room. Connected In asking these users to rate their systems for overall to the LCUs were band printers and page printers. These satisfaction, the responses ranged from fair to very good. printers offered very fast high-speed communications, All three users gave a good for ease of installation, while printing capabilities, and very high print quality. The PIX two gave an excellent for hardware reiiability and one gave links gave fast channel response time that the user felt he a good. The quality of maintenance and quality of tech could not get from IBM devices. He found the Paradyne support ranged from fair to excellent. Ease of operation equipment to be very compatible with big mainframes and rated two excellents and one good. front-end processors.

All three users were involved in the decision to buy, and Another user felt that the Paradyne architecture handles when asked why they chose Paradyne, a reason given by all bandwidth effectively. He explained that if he had gone three was that there wasn't that much else to choose from with another vendor, he would have had to install two Tl t>

Paradyne PIXNET Communications Systems

\> lines, and his operating expenses would have increased by When asked about disadvantages, one user stated that his ( about $80,000/month. This user gave examples of the main problem was in selling others in his company on a amounts of data that is moved each month. He said that in non-IBM product. They were an IBM shop, and the others checks alone, they move over 50 million/month. Over 390 were wary about straying from the familiar. This user said million lines of data is transmitted each month. He quoted that his only other complaint was in getting the equipment other figures and they were all in the millions. So for his installed. Paradyne has a small service department, and needs, Paradyne fit the bill. He also liked the fact that the they had to do some juggling to fit him in. When asked PIXNET system did not require software changes. about after installation service, he said that they were very prompt and efficient. He would recommend the Paradyne The third user felt that PIXNET's strongest point was in its equipment to a potential buyer. switching capabilities. He saw the device as a local exten sion of byte channels. He did feel that a potential user should look carefully at the Paradyne equipment, in that The third user had no real disadvantages to list. He said it they used a different way of addressing than was normally was just a case of adding one more competitor to the found. He felt that the basic technical setup was different network. He felt that the PIXNET system met his needs. from what a user might be familiar with, and that this point When asked if he would recommend the system to a should be considered before making a decision to buy. potential buyer, he said yes. 0

e- li; \

C13-679-101 Processors

Paradyne PIX-II and PIXnet

A virtual data link system that allows remote peripherals to operate as if they were in the same room with the host computer.

Various control units provide access to the byte multiplexer channel of an IBM-compati ble host for a wide variety of peripherals. including card readers. magnetic tape units. line printers. and 3270-type CRT clusters. Multiple host switching and application switching within a host are supported. The system is transparent. and no hardware or software modifications are required. Front end hardware/software and host telecom munications access methods. such as TCAM or VTAM. are not required.

A typical configuration including the control units with 9600 bps modems. a remote 600 cpm card reader. remote 900 Ipm line print er. and a remote magnetic tape drive can be purchased for $98.350 or leased for two years at $4.129 per month. including The PIX Remote Control Unit (RCU) is located remotely to the maintenance. host computer and communicates with the host via a PIX Local Control Unit (LCU). A variety ofperipheral devices/ controllers can be physically connected to an RCU. The maximum number of terminal devices that can be connected to an RCU is 96. CHARACTERISTICS

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation, 8550 Ulmerton Road, Largo, Florida 33540; telephone (813) 536-4771. Paradyne PIX-II and PIXnet are virtual data link communications Canada Ltd., 200 Consumers Road, Suite 504, Willowdale, systems that allow local and remote peripherals to interact Ontario M2J 4R4; telephone (416) 494-0453. with one or more computers via local device access meth DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: PIX-March 1976 (as ods as if they were all locally connected. This "channel PIX I); PIXnet-4th quarter 1979. extension" technique does not require front-end hardware or software or host telecommunications software. DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: PIX-April 1976 (as PIX I); PIXnet-February 1980. PIX-II refers to the second generation of Paradyne's Paral lel Interface Extension products, which support only point NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Over 2800 (PIX-II to-point connections in single-host environments. When and PIXnet). Paradyne expanded its capabilities in 1979 to include SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation. multiple-host networking support, the name PIXnet was introduced. PIX-II is the name still generally used to refer to single-host environments in which a PIX system oper CONFIGURATION ates, and PIXnet generally refers to multi-host networks. The primary components of a PIX-II or PIXnet virtual data PIX systems can include any of four types of control units. link system are the Local Control Unit (LCU), the Remote The Local Control Unit (LCU) is located at the host site Control Unit (RCU), the Integrated Communications Pro cessor (ICP), and, for PIXnet systems only, the Network and connects to the byte multiplexer channel of an IBM Control Unit (NCU). Each control unit is microprocessor 360, 370, 303X, 4300, or compatible host. The Remote based and equipped with 64K bytes of memory expandable Control Unit (RCU) is located at a remote site and con- to 128K bytes. nects to the host through the LCU, to which it is connected ( via standard data communication lines. The Integrated The LCU and ICP are co-located with the host computer and can connect to a single port of the byte multiplexer Communications Processor (ICP) can perform all the func- channel of an IBM 360, 370, 303X 308X,4300, or compati- tions of the LCU, plus providing support for all RCU ble computer. The ICP provides all LCU functions, plus the peripheral support functions and for application switching I:> RCU's peripheral support capability and a switching capa- ..

~ bility that permits application selection in the host. Applica 1:> in the attached host. The Network Control Unit, used in / PIXnet configurations only, provides all the functions of tions switching is done using simple sign-on/sign-off proce dures. Multiple LCUs and/or ICPs can be connected to the the RCU, plus capabilities for multi-host selection and same mainframe. Computer-tOocomputer communications application selection within a host. Each of the four control can be facilitated by an LCU-tOoLCU or similar link. units is microprocessor-based and provides up to 128K bytes of memory. The RCU and NCU are positioned remotely to the host, and are connected to the host via an LCU or ICP. RCU-tOoRCU (terminal-to-terminal) and RCU-to-NCU links can also be Any of the control units can accommodate a set of locally established. The link between two control units is synchro or remotely connected peripherals, each with its own sys nous at rates of between 4800 and 57.6K bps. Multiple tem address, as well as communicating with other control RCUs/NCUs can be connected to an LCU/ICP, and multi unit(s) in the network. The NCU provides 13 ports for ple RCUs can be connected to an NeU. The RCU can connect to only one other control unit, establishing a point connection of peripherals and control units. The RCU can to-point connection. The NeU has up to 13 ports available handle many peripheral devices but allows only one con for connection of other control units, and provides capabili nection to another control unit. The number of devices and ties for multiple-host switching and selection of applications control units that an LCU or ICP can accommodate within a host. Routing is done automatically by the NCU, depends on device types and line speeds. Multiple LCUs which also balances the network using dynamic line utiliza tion statistics and associated line weighing factors, and and ICPs can be connected to a single host. provides back-up for line failure.

A PIX system in a point-to-point configuration can handle The PIX system allows remote peripherals to communicate a maximum of 96 individually addressed peripherals. with the host as if they were directly connected. Each Many IBM peripherals can be accommodated as well as a peripheral has its own system address and communications are interrupt driven. The system is a virtual data link and comprehensive line of Paradyne peripherals, which in provides a transparent interface between the host and re cludes card readers, line printers, CR Ts with associated motely located card readers/punches, line printers, magnet controllers, and magnetic tape units. A wide variety of ic tape units, and clustered CRTs/printers emulating 3270s. integral or stand-alone modems is also offered. Paradyne has its own line of peripherals, or some IBM peripherals can be used. The communications link between two control units oper In addition to the microprocessor and memory, each control ates synchronously, half-or full-duplex, at rates from 4800 unit is equipped with a control panel, a cassette drive for bps to 57.6K bps. program loading, and various adapters to interface the CPU, communications lines, and peripherals. The communica tions lines use external modems, which are manufactured by Formed in the late 1960's, Paradyne quickly became a Paradyne and can be supplied as part of the system. Each respected leader in the development of high-speed synchro peripheral port provides for direct memory access to its nous modems. Paradyne was the first firm to offer a 4800 control unit. An LCU/ICP, in addition to its attachment to bps modem for use on the dial network, a self-contained the host, can support a limited number oflocal card readers, CRTs, and line printers, which normally interface directly to error-control modem, and a family of microprocessor the multiplexer channel, saving a control unit position on the based programmable modems. In 1976, it introduced the multiplexer channel. The RCU is physically capable of PIX concept. The initial offering, the PIX-I, was a hard connecting a variety of peripherals, and the NCU provides wired machine with less capability than the PIX-II and 13 ports for connection of peripherals and control units. The maximum number of connections that can actually be han PIXnet systems offered now. The PIX-I is still sold on an dled is established by throughput, which is difficult to "as available" basis but is limited to refurbished units. calculate even when the high speed line rate is known because the controllers use data compression techniques. COMPETITIVE POSITION

The Paradyne PIX systems are unique in their ability to TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS perform VTAM-like functions without VTAM software in Transmission between control units is synchronous at stan the host. Other communications processors that perform dard rates of 4800,9600, 19.21{, or 57.6K bps. Other rates similar functions with appropriate software such as VTAM are possible. Transfer is usually full-duplex, but can be half running in the host include the IBM 3705 and new 3725 duplex. Paradyne's Synchronous Data Link Control proto and the Amdahl 4705 and new 4705E. col (SDLC) is used with Go-Back-N error control and recovery techniques. High speed satellite transmission has been used with PIX systems, and time delay does not appear With a maximum memory capacity of 128K bytes, each to be a problem. In fact, some users have reported response individual PIX-II or PIXnet control unit has less memory time improvements using PIX. than an IBM 3705-80 (which has 256K bytes), an IBM 3705-11 or Amdahl 4705 (each of which has 512K bytes), an IBM 3725 or Amdahl 4705E (each of which has 1M byte). SOFTWARE However, since multiple control units can be configured, comparable memory capacity may be able to be attained in The software in the control units is provided by Paradyne for ,/ . the aggregate. As a front-end processor, a PIX-II is channel the required configuration. Code is resident in memory and consists of modules for each type of connected device. One \". / attachable to only one host; the IBM 3705 and Amdahl module type supports multiple devices of the same type. 4705 are each channel-attachable to up to four hosts, the Paradyne claims to have" off-the-shelf' software and firm- Amdahl 4705E serves up to four, and the IBM 3725 serves t:> ware for most popular applications. ~

Configuration

Typicai PIX-II (Point-to-Point)

Card I Printerune II Reader I

j" Connections IBM- Channel I RCU I to Local/Remote compatible LCU / Peripherals Processor Anachment I .L

Typical PIXnet (Multi-host Network)

Connections Connections ~ RCU Connections ~toperiPheralS to peripherals to peripherals

IBM compatible LCU Connections Processor to peripherals

IBM LCU compatible Processor

IBM compatible ICP Processor

Connections Co nnections to peripherals ~ Connections ~ to peripherals to peripherals

Maximum number of addressable devices per PIX-II or PIXnet system is limited only by line speed and throughput considerations. Maximum number of other control units directly attachable to NCU is 13. Maximum number of devices (peripherals or other control units) directly attachable to LCU or ICP depends on types of devices and line speeds. Only a Paradyne card reader and a Paradyne line printer may be directly connected to the LCU as peripherals; all other control units may directly connect any of the full repertoire of peripherals supported. up to eight. As a remote line concentrator, a PIXnet unit The host software is unaware ofthe communications lines or serves multiple hosts, as do the IBM 3705 and 3725, but the foreign peripherals and therefore requires no telecommuni cations access method, such as BTAM, QTAM, TCAM, or Amdahl 4705 serves only one host. VT AM. The LCU /ICP simulation of the byte multiplexer channel/peripheral interface will operate under DOS, ADVANTAGES AND RESTRICTIONS DOS/VS, DOS/VSE, OS/MFT, OS/MVT, OS/VSt, OS/ VS2 (SVS), and OS/VS2 (MVS). A major advantage of a Paradyne PIX system is that its hardware capabilities provide VTAM-like switching func Remote site telecommunications software is eliminated. Ter tions, enabling users to switch to different applications minals running under most existing IBM and compatible without the expense and complexity of adding VTAM, software systems are supported, including IMS, CICS, TCAM, or BT AM software to the host computer. In addi TSO, GBASwift, Environ/t, Westi, Roscoe, and others. tion, NCP is not required in the front end. The PIX system The PIX-II and PIXnet systems also have a Remote Console uses a Paradyne version of IBM's Synchronous Data Link Support (RCS) feature that allows remote operators to use Control (SDLC) protocol, and thus also provides the ad- the same type offacilities currently available to Remote Job ~

AUGUST 1983 © 1983 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED C13-679-104 Processors Paradyne PIX-liand PIXnet t:> vantages ofSNA. Data compression techniques are used to 1:> The company spokesman said the PIX system works very / enhance high speed line efficiency, and built-in error con well, and stated that its main advantage is that "you don't trol and recovery procedures are standard. need VT AM running in the host system but you still get all the advantages of VTAM and SNA." He observed that Another PIX advantage is its transparency. The communi VTAM (at the software level) gives you the ability to switch cations functions of PIX-II and PIXnet are transparent to to different applications, and so does PIX (at the hardware the user and the host(s); all operations with the various level); SNA gives you the ability to use SDLC protocol, peripherals proceed as if they are local devices. Each pe which works with satellite communications. The company ripheral is addressed individually, and virtual simulta is using Western Union's Westar satellite service. A PIX neous operation is achieved. disadvantage is that a PIX unit cannot be attached directly to IBM-compatible devices, he noted. An IBM device Other ad vantages include reduced line costs because the controller is required to attach a PIX unit to IBM-compati- concentration capabilities of the system require only one ble devices. He said Paradyne provides good support and is line to the host, and remote job entry accommodated by very flexible. "They really support their equipment, and specialized software/firmware. they make it work for you before you pay."

A restriction is that the PIX RCU does not replace an IBM The second user we interviewed represented a supermarket compatible device controller (e.g., an IBM 3274 terminal chain that has five Paradyne ICPs at two locations and an controller). Users of the PIX system must configure all RCU at a third location. This PIXnet system interfaces applicable device controllers used in a traditional IBM with two IBM 4341 host systems. The user had originally environment in addition to the PIX components. installed an LCU, which was upgraded to an ICP, and added the other units in 1983. The user cited no problems with the Paradyne equipment except the peripherals, spe USER REACTION cifically card readers and a line printer manufactured by In Datapro's Network Users' Survey conducted in January Control Data Corporation. These peripherals are leased and February of 1983, we received replies from four users from Paradyne, who has repaired them; the user claims that of Paradyne PIX systems. These users' ratings are listed in a human engineering problem remains with the line print the following table. er. on which the gate opens only about 75 degrees instead of 90 degrees.O ----Exctllent Good ------Fair Poor WA* Overall Performance 4 0 0 0 4.0 Ease of Installation 0 3 1 0 2.8 ~ Entry (RJE) terminal operators. The necessary RCS soft Ease of Operation 3 1 0 0 3.8 ware is provided by Paradyne. RCS is designed to interface Ease of Expansion 3 I 0 0 3.8 with unmodified IBM operating system software. It will Hardware Reliability 4 0 0 0 4.0 operate with Paradyne CRT consoles, Teletype-compatible Quality of Manufactur- 2 2 0 0 3.5 terminals, or 1052- or 3270-type consoles. RCS provides er's Software/Firmware facilities that are functionally equivalent to those available Ease of Programming 2 0 0 0 ** to the RJE terminal operator. Support is provided for DOS/ Quality of Manufactur- 3 1 0 0 3.5 VS/POWER, MVS/JES2, and OS/HASP. PIX operates er's Maintenance under all IBM and compatible spooling systems including Service DOS/POWER, VS/POWER, POWER/VS, GRASP, Quality of Manufactur- 3 0 0 3.8 GRASP/VS, SPRINT, ASAP, ESF, THE SPOOLER, er's Technical Support HASP, JES, and JES2.

*Weighted Average is based on a scale of 4.0 for Excellent. In conjunction with the NCD, PIXnet's Administrator Con **Weighted Average for less than three responses is considered sole software provides for network control, including session invalid. establishment, configuration control, configuration testing and reporting, and statistics gathering and status reporting.

PERIPHERALS Two of these users were interviewed by telephone in June 1983. One of them is a west-coast company that provides The following IBM peripheral devices are supported: an international component exchange; it helps companies trade their commodities, matching up a seller's excess Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2520, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. Line Printer-IBM 1403 (via 2821),3211 (via 3811),3203/ inventory with a buyer. The company has offices at five 5. sites. Every employee has a Paradyne terminal, which Card Punch-IBM 1442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via communicates with the central computer in such applica 3505). tions as sales inventory control, electronic mail, accounting Check Sorter-3890. CRTs/Printers-IBM 3270: 3278 (via 3274-1A/IB/lD), functions, and customer tracking. The company has been 3284,3286,3288,3285, 3287, 3289. using two Paradyne PIX Integrated Communications Pro cessors for about a year; both units are located at the host The following Paradyne peripheral devices are supported: computer, a Magnuson M80 which the company plans to replace with an IBM 4341. 1::> Card Readers-300 cpm, 600 cpm. ~

~ Line Printers-300 Ipm, 600 Ipm, 900 Ipm, 1200 Ipm, 2000 PRICING Ipm. Magnetic Tape-9-track, BOO-bpi, NRZ; 9-track, 1600-bpi, The PIX-II and related peripherals can be purchased or are Phase Encoded; 9-track, 800/1600 bpi, NRZ/PE. available on two- three- or five-year lease plans. Lease CRT Operator Console-1920 character screen. charges include maintenance. The maintenance rates in the Paradyne Display System (PDS)-functional replacements accompanying table are for purchased equipment and are for IBM 3270 displays, printers, and controllers. based on Zone 1 service, which is defined as being within a SO-mile radius of a Paradyne service center. Approximately Other devices supported are: SO U.S. metropolitan areas are presently designated as service centers. Service outside Zone 1 is provided at a Xerox 9700 laser printer, Kodak Komstar computer output premium. microfilm device, and various digital plotters.

Monthly Charges* Purchase Monthly 2-Yr. 3-Yr. 5-Yr. Price Maint.

$27.740 $157 7610-3 Local Control Unit (LCU); has 128K-byte memory $ 912 $ 807 $ 747 680 6 7201 Device Address 24 21 19 2.000 11 7229 3270 Multiple Address 66 56 51 3.000 16 7210 V.35/Bell 303/RS-232 Port 86 76 70 157 7605 Integrated Communications Processor (ICP) 885 775 720 26.800 188 7510-20 Network Control Unit (NCU); has 128K-bytes memory 678 628 603 23.575 30.000 167 7511 Master Network Control Unit 857 787 747 2.100 16 7532 RS-232 Port 96 86 81 2.500 22 7535-16 V.35/Bell 303 Port 122 117 107 3.900 24 7803 Keyboard Console 124 119 114 (. 151 7620-5 Remote Control Unit (RCU); has 128K-byte memory 791 701 651 23.370 34.650 265 7625 Remote Control Unit (RCU); includes tape drive (1600 bpi. DO. NRZ/PE. 9- 1.470 1.285 1.185 track) 2.650 22 7626 Stand-alone Cabinet for 2nd and subsequent tapes 95 89 84 2.800 28 7208 IBM Multiplexer Channel Extension 168 157 151 2.100 18 7209 IBM Multiplexer Channel Device Controller; 1 per 2 drives 109 102 95 28 7212-1 Multiplexer Range Controller; 32 devices 168 157 151 4.480 2 7222 Print/Tape mode switch (optional with 7625. 7626) 11 10 10 350 PIX Peripherals and Options 70 8203 300 cpm Card Reader (w/ctlr) 209 187 175 5.300 70 8206 600 cpm Card Reader (w/ctlr) 257 227 215 6.000 14.000 175 8323-10 300 Ipm Line Printer (w /ctlr) 532 482 460 18.000 200 8326-10 600 Ipm Line Printer (w / ctlr) 852 752 710 8329-10 900 Ipm Line Printer (w/ctlr) 1.102 982 920 26.000 260 400 8332-10 1200 Ipm Line Printer; includes printer controller 1.471 1.372 1.270 46.000 66.000 700 8353-10/20 2000 Ipm Line Printer; 1403 or 3211 compatible; includes printer 2.600 2.450 2.350 Paradyne Display System (PDS): 4.000 35 9401 PDS Local Controller 135 125 120 20 9402 PDS Remote Controller 95 90 85 2.500 50 9476-51 Display and Keyboard with Integrated Controller; up to 32 devices (Re- 166 160 155 5.850 mote)"" 20 9478-51 Display and Keyboard (Local)" 77 73 71 3.000 60 9487 150 cps Loop Printer and Controller 250 240 230 5.400

'Includes monthly maintenance. "Wide selection of keyboards available .•

C13-679-101 Processors

Paradyne PIX-II and PIXNET

A virtual data link system that allows remote peripherals to operate as if they were in the same room with the host computer.

Various control units provide direct or indirect access to the byte multiplexer channel of an IBM-compatible host for a wide variety of peripherals. including card readers. magnetic tape units. line printers. and 3270-type CRT clusters. Multiple host switching and applica tion switching within a host are supported. The system is transparent. and no hardware or software modifications are required. Front end hardware/software and host telecom munications access methods. such as TCAM or VTAM. are not required.

A typical configuration including the control units with 9600 bps modems. a remote 600 cpm card reader. remote 900 Ipm line printer. and a remote magnetic tape drive can be purchased for $87.150 or leased for two years at $3.203 per month. including maintenance. The PIX Remote Control Unit (RCU) can be located locally or ( remotely to the host computer, and communicates with the host via a PIX Local Control Unit (LCU). Up to 25 peripheral devices( controllers can be physically connected to an RCV. The maximum number of device addresses that can be handled by an RCU is 64. CHARACTERISTICS

VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation, 8550 U1merton Road, MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Largo, Florida 33540. Telephone (813) 536-4771. DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: PIX-March 1976 (as PI X-II and PIXNET are virtual data link communications PIX I); PIXNET -4th quarter 1979. systems that allow local and remote peripherals to interact with one or more computers via local device access DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: PIX-April 1976 (as PIX methods as if they were all locally connected. This I); PIXNET-February 1980. "channel extension"technique does not require front-end NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Over 1300 (PIX-II hardware or software, or host telecommunications and PIXNET). software. SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation. PIX-II refers to the second generation of Paradyne's CONFIGURATION Parallel Interface Extension products, which support only point-to-point connections in single-host environments. The primary components of a PIX-II or PIX NET virtual data When Paradyne expanded its capabilities in 1979 to link system are the Local Control Unit (LCU), the Remote include multiple-host networking support, the name Control Unit (RCU), the Integrated Communications Processor (ICP), and, for PIXNET systems only, the PIXNET was introduced. PIX-II is the name still generally Network Control Unit (NCU). Each control unit is used to refer to single-host environments in which a PIX microprocessor-based and equipped with 32K bytes of system operates, and PIXNET generally refers to multi memory expandable to 128K bytes. host networks. The LCU and ICP are co-located with the host computer, and PIX systems can include any of four types of control units. can connect to a single port of the byte multiplexer channel of an IBM 360, 370, 303X, 4300 or compatible computer. The The Local Control Unit (LCU) is located at the host site ICP provides all LCU functions, plus the RCU's peripheral and connects to the byte multiplexer channel of an IBM support capability and a switching capability that permits c 360, 370, 303X, 4300, or compatible host. The Remote application selection in the host. Applications switching is Control Unit (RCU) may be located at the host site or at a done using simple sign-on/sign-oiT procedures. Multiple LCUs and/or ICPs can be connected to the same main- remote site and connects to the host through the LCU, to frame. Computer-to-computer communications can be which it is connected via standard data communication 1:> facilitated by an LCU-tOoLCU, LCU-tOoICP, or simnar link. ~ FEBRUARY 1981 © 1981 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED . C13-679:102 Processors

Paradyne PIX-II and PIXNET t> Hnes. The Integrated Communications Processor (ICP) ..... The RCV and NCV can be positioned locally or remotely to can perform all the functions of the LCU, plus providing the host, and are connected to the host via an LCV or ICP. RCV-to-RCV (terminal-to-terminal) and RCV-to-NCV support for all RCU peripheral support functions and for links can also be established. The link between two control application switching in the attached host. The Network units is synchronous at rates of between 2400 and 56K bps. Control Unit, used in PIXNET configurations only, Multiple RCVs/NCVs can be connected to an LCV/ICP, provides all the functions of the RCU, plus capabilities for and multiple RCVs can be connected to an NCU. The RCV multi-host selection and application selection within a can connect to only one other control unit, establishing a point-to-point connection. The NCV has up to 14 ports host. Each of the four control units is microprocessor available for connection of other control units, and provides based and provides up to l28K bytes of memory. capabilities for multiple-host switching and selection of applications within a host. Routing is done automatically by Any of the control units can accommodate a set of locally the NCV, which also balances the network using dynamic line or remotely connected peripherals, each with its own utilization statistics and associated line weighing factors, and system address, as well as communicating with other provides back-up for line failure. control unites) in the network. The NCU provides 14 ports The PIX system allows remote peripherals to communicate for connection of peripherals and control units. The RCU with the host as if they were directly connected. Each can handle as many as 25 peripheral devices, but allows peripheral has its own system address and communications only one connection to another control unit. The number are interrupt driven. The system is a virtual data link and provides a transparent interface between the host and of devices and control units that an LCU or ICP can remotely located card readers/punches, line printers, accommodate depends on device types and line speeds. magnetic tape units, and clustered CRTs/printers emulating Multiple LCUs and ICPs can be connected to a single 32705. Paradyne has its own line of peripherals, or some IBM host. peripherals can be used. A maximum of 64 peripherals can be individually addressed by the PIX system. A PIX system can handle a maximum of 64 individually In addition to the microprocessor and memory, each control addressed peripherals. Many IBM peripherals can be unit is equipped with a control panel, a cassette drive for accommodated as well as a comprehensive line of program loading, and various adapters to interface the CPV, Paradyne peripherals, which includes card readers, line communications lines, and peripherals. The communications printers, CRTs with associated controllers, and magnetic lines use external modems, which are manufactured by Paradyne and can be supplied as part of the system. Each tape units. A wide variety of integral or stand-alone peripheral port provides for direct memory access to its modems is also offered. control unit. An LCV/ICP, in addition to its attachment to the host, can support a limited number of local card readers, The communications aspects of PIX-II or PIXNET are CRTs, and line printers, which normally interface directly to completely transparent to the user and the host(s); all the multiplexer channel, saving a control unit position on the multiplexer channel. The RCV is physically capable of operations with the various peripherals proceed as if they connecting up to 25 peripherals, and the NCU provides 14 were local devices. Each peripheral is addressed ports for connection of peripherals and control units. The individually as if it were local, and virtual simultaneous maximum number of connections that can actually Ire operation is achieved. Remote devices that would handled is established by throughput, which is difficult to normally operate in half-duplex BSC mode can be calculate even when the high speed line rate is known because the controllers use data compression techniques. serviced by a full-duplex link with essentially zero turn around time. TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS The communications link between two control units Transmission between control units is synchronous at operates synchronously, half- or full-duplex, at rates from standard rates of 2400, 4800, 9600, 19.2K, or 56K bps. Other 2400 bps to 56K bps. A Paradyne version of IBM's rates are possible. Transfer is usually full-duplex, but can be Synchronous Data Link Control (SO LC) protocol is used. half-duplex. Paradyne's Synchronous Data link Control Data compression techniques are used to enhance high protocol (SDLC) is used with Go-Back-N error control and recovery techniques. High speed satellite transmission has speed line efficiency, and built-in error control and been used with PIX systems, and time delay does not appear recovery procedures are standard. to be a problem. In fact, some users have reported response time improvements using PIX. Some of the salient features and benefits of PIX-II and PIXNET are: SOFTWARE

• Transparency-Both the host and the peripherals The software in the control units is tailored by Paradyne for operate as if the connection and operation were local. the required configuration. Code is resident in memory and consists of modules for each type of connected device. One module type supports multiple devices of the same type. • Reduced hardware cost-270X or 370X front ends are Paradyne claims to have "off-the-shelf' software and not required. firmware for most popular applications. • Reduced software requirements-NCP is not required The host software is unaware of the communications lines or /- in the front end and VT AM, TCAM, or BT AM is not foreign peripherals and therefore requires no telecommunications access method, such as BTAM, QTAM, TCAM, or required in the host. VTAM. The LCV/ICP simulation of the byte multjplexer channel/peripheral interface will operate under DOS, • Reduced line costs-The concentration technique of DOS/VS, DOS/VSE, OS/MFT, OS/MVT, OS/VS1, the system requires only one line. t> OS/VS2 (SVS), and OS/VS2 (MVS)...... © 1981 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA FEBRUARY 1981 REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED C13-679-103 Processors

Paradyne PIX-II and PIXNET

Configuration

Typical PIX-II (Point-to-Point)

Connections RCU to Local/Remote Peripherals

Connections IBM Channel RCU to Local/Remote compatible LCU I Peripherals Processor Attachment

Connections RCU to Local/Remote Per ipher al s

Typical PIXNET (Multi-host Network)

Connections RCU RCU to peripherals

Connections IBM to peripherals compatible NCU Processor

( IBM LCU compatible Processor NCt)

IBM Connections to peripherals compatible lOP Processor

Connections Connections Connections to peripherals RCU RCU to peripherals· to peripherals

Maximum number of addressable devices per PIX-II or PIXNET system is 64. Maximum number of peripherals directly attachable to RCU is 25. Maximum number of devices (peripherals or other control units) directly attachable to NCU is 14. Maximum number of devices (peripherals or other control units) dlrecty attachable to LCU or ICP is dependent on types of devices and line speeds. Only a Paradyne card reader and a Paradyne line printer may be directly-connected to the LCU as peripherals; all other control units may directly connect anyof the full repertoire of peripherals supported.

1> • Reduced response time--Polling, ACK/NAK, and ~ Remote site telecommunications software is eliminated. BSC turn-around time are eliminated because the Terminals running under most existing IBM and compatible software systems are supported, including IMS, CICS, TSO, host / peripheral interaction is interrupt-driven. GBASWIFT, ENVIRON/l,WESTI, ROSCOE, and others.

• High link efficiency-SD LC protocol for speeds to 56K The PIX-II. and PIX NET systems also have a Remote bps in full-duplex mode with error recovery procedures. Console Support (RCS) feature that allows remote operators to use the same type offacillties currently available to Remote • Remote Job Entry--Accommodated by specialized Job Entry (RJE) terminal operators. The necessary RCS software / firmware. software is provided' by Paradyne. ReS is designed to interface with unmodified IBM operating system software. It will operate with Pinadyne CRT consoles, Teletype Formed in the late 1960's, Paradyne quickly became a compatible terminals, or 1052· or 3270-type consoles. RCS respected leader In the development of high-speed t:> provides facilities that are functionally equivalent to those ~

Paradyne PIX-II and PIXNET

]:::> synchronous modems. The firm was first with a 4800 bps only at the local host site to be remotely located, without modem for use on the dial network, first with a self any special attachments or adapters, and with complete contained error-control modem, and first with a family of transparency to both the user and the host. No microprocessor-based programmable modems. In 197fj, it degradation in host system capabilities was experienced, was first with the PIX concept. The initial offering, the and PIX system throughput was reported to be excellent. PIX-I, was a hard-wired machine with less capability than the PIX-II and PIXNET systems offered now. The PIX-I According to these users, PIX control units are very is still sold on an "as available" basis, but is limited to reliable, durable, versatile, and simple to install and refurbished units. use. One user stated that "the control unit is the most reliable piece of telecommunications equipment we have." USER REACTION Another user pointed out that, unlike IBM's approach, no specially trained personnel are required to use it. Two users In January 1981, Datapro conducted telephone interviews specifically mentioned the usefulness of Paradyne's with six Paradyne PIX-II users, whose names were diagnostics, although two others had specific suggestions supplied to us by Paradyne, and who reported their for improvements in the LCU diagnostic package. The experience with a total of 14 local units (LCUs) high quality of the Paradyne peripherals was also and 18 remote control units (RCUs). The control units mentioned: "generally very durable"; "the card readers were supporting a wide range of peripherals devices, never fail"; "the line' printer is better than IBM's 1403". including CRTs, printers, card readers, reader/punches, and MICR reader /sorters; the typical RCU supported ten or twelve CRTs, one or two line printers, and a card Very few negative comments were made by these users. reader. These PIX systems had been installed for an Three of the six users had experienced some problems, average of over two years. Four of the users attached their generally of a minor nature, with Paradyne's software. LCUs to IBM 303X mainframes, one user used an IBM One felt that new releases are not thoroughly tested, and 370/148, and one had an IBM 370/155. All PIX-related have too many bugs. The second stated that it took 45 days peripherals were used for remote job entry, remote for the Paradyne people to fix a software problem found printing, or time-sharing. All the PIX systems were during his system's installation. The third stated that a acquired directly from Paradyne; four users were leasing recent release of I BM host software has caused some their, Paradyne equipment, and the other two had minor incompatibility problems with his existing purchased it outright. Paradyne software, and that it will take 3 to 4 weeks for Paradyne to resolve the incompatibility. These users' ratings are summarized below: Two users felt that reponse to requests for field service is Excellent ~ Fair Poor W A * sometimes slow, although two other users stated that reponse time is excellent. One user found that dealing with Overall performance 4 2 0 0 3.7 Ease of installation 5 1 0 0 3.8 multiple vendors (i.e. IBM and Paradyne) is somewhat Throughput 4 2 0 0 3.7 inconvenient. Another stated that, under Paradyne's Hardware reliability 5 I 0 0 3.8 maintenance contract, if Paradyne is called in for a Promptness of maintenance I 4 I 0 3.0 problem that turns out to be caused by another vendor's Quality of maintenance 2 4 0 0 3.3 Manufacturer's software 4 2 0 0 3.7 equipment, the user is billed for the call, whereas IBM is Manufacturer's technical 4 I I 0 3.5 generally more lenient about charging, or doesn't change support at all, for problems caused by non-IBM devices.

*Weighted Average on a scale of 4.0 for Excellent. For the most part, these users enthusiastically recom These users reported that their PIX Systems were doing an mended their PIX systems, and reported that the excellent job for them. According to them, the PIX-II advantages greatly overshadowed the disadvantages.D performs exactly as advertised, and provides a refreshingly unique, simple, and straightforward approach to remote data communications. One user stated that he is "always amazed that it is not more popular than it is." Another felt ~ available to the RJE terminal operator. Support is provided that "too many people get into a syndrome of tllinking that for DOS/VS/POWER, MVS/JES2, and OS/HASP. PIX if IBM doesn't support it, it won't work; well, this not only operates under aD IBM and compatible spooling systems works, it works better than IBM's solution to the including DOS/POWER, VS/POWER, POWER/VS, problem." GRASP, GRASP/VS, SPRINT, ASAP, ESF, THE SPOOLER, HASP, JES, and JES2.

/' . These users reported that the PIX system is much more cost effective .than IBM's traditional approach, with In conjunction with the NCV, PIXNET's Administrator Console software provides for network control, including '"" savings realized on CPU overhead, host software, front session establishment, configuration control, configuration end hardware/software, and communications lines. In testing and reporting, and statistics gathering and status addition, the PIX allows types of devices normally used reporting. ...

~ PERIPHERALS VDU77 Display Control and Keyboard/Displays-I920 ( character screen. '. The following IBM peripheral devices are supported: CRT Operator Console-1920 character screen. Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2520, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. Paradyne Display System (PDS)-3270-compatible Line Printer-IBM 1403 (via 2821), 3211 (via 3811), displays, printers, and controllers. 3203/5. Card Punch-IBM 1442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via 3505). PRICING Check Sorter-3890. CRTs/Printers-IBM 3270: 3278 (via 3274-IB/ID; via 3274-IA in future), 3284, 3286, 3288, 3285, 3287, 3289. The PIX-II and related peripherals can be purchased or are available on two-, three- or five-year lease plans. I,ease The following Paradyne peripheral devices are supported: charges include maintenance. The maintenance rates in the Card Readers-300 cpm, 600 cpm, 1000 cpm. accompanying table are for purchased equipment and are Line Printers-300 lpm, 600 lpm, 900 lpm, 1200 lpm, 2000 based on Zone I service, which is defined as being within a 50- lpm. mile radius of a Paradyne service center. Approximately 50 Magnetic Tape-9-track, 800-bpi, NRZ; 9-track, 1600-bpi, U.S. metropolitan areas are presently designated as service Phase Encoded; 9-track, 800/1600 bpi, NRZ/PE. centers. Service outside Zone 1 is provided at a premium.

Monthly Charges* Purchase Monthly 2-Yr. 3-Yr. 5-Yr. Price Maint.

7610 Local Control Unit (LCU) $360 $312 $284 $11,200 $60 7615 LCU Expansion Cabinet 105 92 83 3,400 15 7201 Device Address (except 3270) 23 20 18 680 5 7221 3270 Device Address 12 11 11 580 2 7229 3270 Multiple Address 60 50 45 2,000 5 7210-30 V.35 Digital; 56KB B6 76 70 2,550 16

7605 Integrated Communications Processor (ICP) 873 767 707 26,880 130

7510 Network Control Unit (NCU) 275 265 255 15,000 50 7532 RS-232 Port 95 85 80 2,100 15 7535 V.35/303 Port 120 115 105 2,500 20 7803 Keyboard Console 120 115 110 3,900 20

7620 Remote Control Unit (RCU) 235 208 191 6,600 60 7625 Remote Control Unit (RCU); incl udes space for 235 208 191 6,600 60 (- tape drive 7626 Stand-alone Cabinet for 2nd and subsequent tapes 75 65 60 2,200 20 7205-1 VDU 77 Controller, 1 for 3 devices 32 27 25 1,000 5 7206 Punch Controller 37 32 29 1,200 5 7208 IBM MUX Channel Extension 105 97 93 2,000 5 7209 IBM MUX Channel Device Controller; 1 per 2 70 65 60 1,500 5 drives 7211 Diskette Controller 45 40 35 1,300 10 7212-1 MUX Range Controller; 32 devices 109 101 97 3,200 9 7222 Print/Tape mode switch (optional with 7625, 10 9 9 350 1 7626) 7801 CRT Console 134 119 111 3,000 27 7802 Model 77 Visual Display Unit 155 137 127 3,800 27 7809-10 Magnetic Tape Unit; 9 track, 800 bpi, NRZ 400 349 323 9,450 75 7809-20 Magnetic Tape Unit; 9 track; 1600 bpi, PE 545 478 441 11,900 90 7809-30 Magnetic Tape Unit; dual density, 9 track, 670 575 525 14,280 105 800/1600 bpi, NRZ/PE 7810 Diskette Unit 210 185 170 3,200 45 LCU or RCU Features

7101 Control Unit Microprocessor; includes 32K bytes 195 152 138 5,400 30 of memory; mutually exclusive with 7102 7102 Control Unit Microprocessor; includes 128K bytes 490 435 405 15,000 65 of memory; includes ECC circuitry; mutually exclusive with 7101 7110 4K Memory Modules 29 25 23 800 5 7111 Memory Expansion; for expansion of 710l"from 26 23 21 800 5 32K bytes to 64K bytes; max. 1

7202-20 Line Control Module (LCM) 40 36 34 1,030 10 7203 Printer Controller 32 27 25 1,000 5 7204 Card Reader Controller 32 27 25 1,000 5 7205 Async. Controller; 1 per 3 devices 32 27 25 1,000 5 7210-10 High Performance Line Controller; up to 56KB, 86 76 70 2,550 16 RS-232-C 7210-20 High Performance Line Controller; up to 56KB, 86 76 70 2,550 16 WE303 current interface (- 7210-30 High Performance Line Controller; up to 56KB; 86 76 70 2,550 16 digital V.35 interface 7224 96-character set for 8331 printer 27 25 25 500 0

"Includes monthly maintenance.

Paradyne PIX-II and PIXNET

Monthly Charges* PurchasIJ Monthly .&.Y!:: ~ S-Yr. Price Maint. / ~ ~ PIX Peripherals and Options

8203 300 cpm Card Reader 167 155 145 4,300 60 8206 600 cpmCard Reader 220 195 185 5,000 60 8210 1000 cpm Card Reader 380 340 300 7,000 85 8313 300 Ipm Line Printer 460 415 395 12,000 165 8316 600 Ipm Line Printer 755 660 620 16,000 165 8319 900 Ipm Line Printer 1,035 920 8aO 25,000 no 8332-10 1200 Ipm Line Printer; includes printer 1,432 1,327 1,225 46,000 355 contrdler 8353-101 2000 Ipm Line Printer; 1403 or 3211 compatible; 2,500 2,350 2,250 66,000 600 20 includes printer

2695 M-96 9600 bps Modem; leased line 195 180 155 6,500 30 2618 Short Haul Modem; 9600/19,200 bps 40 35 33 900 10 2650 4800 bps Modem; dial-up 131 121 101 3,000 21 2804-2 Voice Adapter Feature 17 17 17 450 5 2805-1 Li ne Switch Feature 7 7 7 150 1

Para dyne Display System (PDS): 9401 PDS Local Controller 379 360 345 10,000 60 9402 Communications' Adapter 65 60 50 2,000 15 9476-1 Display and Keyboard with Integrated 176 170 165 6,000 40 Controller; up to 32 devices 9478·11 Display and Keyboard 57 53 51 3,150 0 9487 150 cps Printer and Cantroller 250 240 230 6,600 60

"Includes monthly maintenance.•

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY A virtual data link system that allows remote peripherals to operate as if they were in the The PIX-II connects to the byte multiplexer channel of same room with the host computer. an IBM System/360 or /370. It allows local and remote peripherals to interact with the computer via local devi~ A Local Control Unit (LCU) connects to the access methods as if they were all locally connected. This byte multiplexer channel of an IBM System/ technique does not require front end hardware or soft 360 or 370. The Remote Control Unit ware, or host telecommunications software. (RCU) can have up to 25 peripherals con nected to it. including card readers. magnetic Two hardware items are involved: a Local Control Unit tape units. line printers. and 3270-type CRT (LCV) and a Remote Control Unit (RCV). The LCU.is clusters. The system is transparent; and no co-located with the host and is connected to the RCU VIa hardware or software modifications are re standard telecommunications links at speeds up to 56K quired.' Front-end hardware/software and bps. Many IBM peripherals can be accommo~ated as host telecommunications access methods. well as a comprehensive line of Paradyne penpherals, such as TCAM,or VTAM. are not required. which include card readers, line printers, CRT's with associated controllers, and magnetic tape units. A wide variety of integral or stand-alone modems is also offered. Both control units are vendor programmable and are microprocessor based. Communica tions between the control units is via SOLC The communications aspect of PIX-II is completely protocol at speeds between 4800 bps and transparent to the user and the host; all operations with 56K bps. the various peripherals proceed as if they were local devices. Each peripheral is addressed individually ~s if !t A typical configuration including the control were local and virtual simultaneous operatlOn IS units with integral modems. a remote 600 achieved. devices that would normally operate in R~mote cpm card reader. remote 900 Ipm line print half-duplex BSC mode can be serviced by a ful!-duplex er. and a remote magnetic tape drive can be PIX-II link with essentially zero turn-around orne. purchased for $79.640 or leased for two years at $2.663 per month. including main The PIX-II communications link operates synchronous tenance. ly, half- or full-duplex, at rates from 4800 bps to 56K bp~. Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC) protocol IS used. CHARACTERISTICS The RCU can handle as many as 25 devices, each VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation, 8550 Ulmerton Road, maintaining its own system address. Each LCU can Largo, Florida 33540. Telephone (813) 536-4771. accommodate multiple RCV's and multiple LCU's can be connected to the mainframe. The units are microproc- 1:> DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: March 1976 (as PIX I). ~

The PIX-II Remote Control Unit (RCU) is shown to the left with com panion peripherals. The tape drive, line printer, card reader, and CRT peripherals, as well as high-speed syn chronous modems can be furnished by Paradyne as part of the PIX sys tem. PIX provides a virtual data link that causes the peripherals to react as if they were directly connected to the host computer even though they may be located thousands of miles away.

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

.l:::> essor based with up to 64K bytes of memory. Data ~ DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: April 1976 (as PIX I). compression techniques are used to enhance high speed line efficiency, and built-in error control and recovery NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Over 400 (PIX U). procedures are standard. SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation. Some of the salient features and benefits of PIX-II are: CONFIGURATION

The primary compooents of a PIX-D virtual data link • Transparency - Both the host and the peripherals system are the Local Control Unit (LCU) and the Remote operate as if the connection and operation were local. Control Unit (RCU). Each is microprocessor based and equipped with 8K or 16K bytes of memory, expandable to • Reduced hardware cost - 270X or 370X front ends 64K bytes. The LCU is oo-located with the host computer, are not required. while the RCU's can be positioned locally or remotely. Communications between the LCU's and RCU's is synchro nous at rates between 4800 bps and 56K bps. The LCU • Reduced software requirements - NCP is not re connects to one port of an IBM S/360 or /370 byte quired in the front end and VT AM, TCAM, or mUltiplexer channel. Multiple LCU's can be connected to BTAM is not required in the host. the same mainframe. MuHiple RCU's can be connected to an LCU; the maximum configuration is variable and de pends on device types and line speeds. Computer-to-com • Reduced line costs - The multiplexing technique of puter communications can be facititated by an LCU-LCU the system requires only one line. communications link.

• Reduced response time - Polling ACK/NAK and The PIX system allows remote peripherals to communicate with the host as if they were directly connected. Each BSC tum-around time are eliminated because the peripheral has its own system address and communications host/peripheral interaction is interrupt driven. are interrupt driven. The system is a virtual data link and provides a transparent interface between the host and • High link efficiency - SDLC protocol for speeds to remotely located card readers/punches, line printers, mag netic tape units, and clustered CRT's emulating 3270's. 56K bps in full-duplex mode with error recovery pro Many of IBM's peripherals can be used, or Paradyne has its cedures. own line of peripherals.

• Remote Job Entry - Accommodated by specialized In addition to the microprocessor and memory, each LCU software / firmware. and RCU is equipped with a control panel, a cassette drive for program loading, and various adapters to interface the CPU, communications lines, and peripherals. The adapters Formed in the late 1960's, Paradyne quickly became a are listed in the accompanying table. The communications respected leader in the development of high-speed syn lines use integral or external modems, both of which are chronous modems. The firm was fIrst with a 4800 bps manufactured by Paradyne and can be supplied as part of the system. Each peripheral port provides for direct memory modem for use on the dial network, fIrst with a self access to its control unit. An LCU, in addition to its contained error-control modem, and first with a family of attachment to the host, can support a limited number of microprocessor-based programmable modems. In 1976, local card readers and line printers aHhough this capability is it was fIrSt with the PIX concept. The initial offering, seldom used. The RCU is physically capable of connec.ting up to 25 peripherals. The maximum number is established the PIX-I, was a hard-wired machine with less capability by throughput, which is difficult to calculate even when the than the PIX-II offered now. The PIX-I is still sold on an high speed line rate is known because the controUers use data "as available" basis, but is limited to refurbished units. 1> compression techniques. •

TABLE 1: 110 Controller Features Required

Control Feature Units Type of Line Peripheral Adapter Type No. Remarks

LCU Asynchronous Line 4800-9600 bps Line Controller 7202 local to 19.2K bps Synchronous to 56K bps High Performance Line 7201 Controller Paradyne Card Reader Card Reader Controller 7204 Paradyne Line Printer Printer Controller 7203

RCU Asynchronous Line 4800-9600 bps Line Controller 7202 Asynchronous Line and Paradyne Async. Controller 7205 Supports up to three devices Synchronous to 56K bps High Performance Line 7210 Controller Paradyne Card Reader Ca rd Reader Controller 7204 Paradyne Line Printer Pri nter Controller 7203 Paradyne Magnetic Tape Mag Tape Controller (NRZ) 7207-1 One tape drive per controller Mag Tape Controller (P.E.) 7207-2 One tape drive per controller " IBM Peripherals IBM Mux. Channel 7209 Up to two devices per controller

( Configuration 7610 Local Control Unit (leU) I Control Panel Microprocessor I 8. 7101 I Cassette L Drive ~ 4; ~':ry1- r - -;;O~ontroller(; -- n- Module I L-----r---- 7110 I f----.J I I I Communications Lines to RCU's or LCU's I and/or Merno~11 I Local Paradyne Printer Expansion I andlor 7111 I card reader I (11 one 16K Memory Expansion Unit required; maximum of two I permitted. I (21 LCU 1/0 Controllers include: Local r--"1 Line to 19.2K bps Connection to I Device I High Performance Line to 56K bps IBM 360/370 - I Address I Paradvfle Printer Byte Multiplexer l 7201 I Paradyne Card Reader Channel RCU 1/0 Controllers include: Line to 19.2K bps High Performance Line to 56K bps Paradyne Card Reader Paradyne Printer Paradyne Magnetic Tape (NRZ) Paradyne Magnetic Tape (P.E.) Paradyne Async Controller (1 controller per 3 async devices) IBM MUX Channel Device (1 controller per 2 devices)

Please see Management Summary for physical capacity limits. 7620 Remote Control Unit (RCU) Communications line 110 Controllers are attached to Paradyne LSI I Control Panel internal modems or external modems. Microprocessor I & 7101 I Cassette I Drive ~---TI----L---- 4K Memory I L 1/0 Controller(21 ~ Module I ---r-----I I ____7110 .J I Communications Lines I to LCU I andlor I Attachment to Paradyne Printer. Card Rea~r! Memory I Magnetic Tape, and/or CRT Operator Console Expansion 7111 I I andlor I I Attachment to IBM printer, card reader, card punch, and/or CRT I r---J..----i I I 110 Controller(21 I-'- I

(~ 1> USER REACTION • TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS Transmission between an RCU and an LCU is synchronous j In September of 1978, Datapro conducted a telephone at standard rates of 4800, 9600, 19.2K, or 56K bps. Other survey of five firms using the PIX-II. In several cases, we rates are possible. Transfer is usually full-duplex, but can be spoke to more than one person within the organization. 1:> half-duplex. Synchronous Data Link Control protocol ~

Paradyne Paraltellnterface Ext~nsion-II(PIX-II)

1:> Whenever possible, the people responsible for day-to-day .. (SDLC) is used with Go-Back-N error control and recovery operations were interviewed in addition to those responsi techniques. High speed satellite transmission has been used ble for the purchase or lease decision. With one excep with PIX systems, and time delay does not appear to be a problem. In fact, some users have reported response time tion, the ratings from individuals in the same organiza improvements using PIX. tion were essentially identical. Consequently, one entry per firm is shown in the accompanying table. In the case SOFTWARE of the exception, Datapro chose to tabulate the ratings of the person with "hands-on" experience, although com The software in the control units is tailored by Paradyne for the required configUration. Code is resident in memory and ments from the other individual are provided in the text. consists of modules for each type of connected device. One The ratings are as follows: module type supports multiple devices of the same type. Paradyne claims to have "off-the-shelf' software and fll'lll ware for most popular applications. Excellent Good Fair Poor WA* The host software is unaware of the communications lines or Overall satisfaction 4 I 0 0 3.8 foreign peripherals and therefore requires no telecommu Ease of installation I 3 0 I 2.8 nications access method, such. as BTAM, QTAM, TCAM, Throughput 5 0 0 0 4.0 or VTAM. The LCU simulation of·the byte multiplexer Reliability 4 0 0 I 3.4 channel/peripheral interface will operate under DOS, DOS/ Promptness of maintenance 3 0 2 0 3.2 VS, OS/MFT, OS/MVT, OS/VSl, OS/VS2 (SVS), and Quality of maintenance 4 0 I 0 3.6 OS/VS2 (MVS). Software 2 2 0 0 3.5 Technical support 2 3 0 0 3.4 Remote site telecommunications software is eliminated. Ter minals running under most existing IBM and compatible *Weighted Average based on 4.0 for Excellent. software systems are supported, including IMS, CICS, TSO, GBASWIFT, ENVIRON/I, WESTI, ROSCOE, and others. The equipment covered by this survey includes 11 LCU's and 14 RCV's. Most installations were also using Para The PIX-II also has a Remote Console Support (RCS) feature that allows PIX-II remote operators to use the same dyne peripherals and modems. Experience ranged from type of facilities currently available to Remote Job Entry two months to one year and averaged six months. Four (RJE) terminal operators. The necessary RCS software is of the firms contacted were Fortune "500" companies that provided by Paradyne. RCS is designed to interface with were involved in light or heavy manufacturing, oil, or a unmodified IBM operating system software. It will operate diversification of enterprises. The fifth was a bank. No with Paradyne CRT consoles, Teletype-compatible termi nals, or 3270-type consoles. RCS provides facilities that are problems specific to the peripherals were reported. The functionally equivalent to those available to the RJE termi modems were highly praised, except in one case where nal operator. Support is provided for DOS/VS/POWER, some of the first 9600 bps units shipped from the factory MVS/JES2, and OS/HASP. PIX operates under all IBM for other than a PIX application had some initial diffi and compatible spooling systems including DOS/POWER, VS/POWER, POWER/VS, GRASP, GRASP/VS, culties. SPRINT, ASAP, ESF, THE SPOOLER, HASP, JES, and JES2. The way in which the PIX was used varied widely. Some installations ran communications links of only several PERIPHERALS thousand feet between the LCV and RCU's, while others ran intercity lines. The lowest transmission speed re The foUowing IBM peripheral devices are supported: ported was 4800 bps; the highest was 56K bps; and the Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. predominant rate was 9600 bps. Installations that used Line Printer-IBM 1403 (via 2821). Card Punch-IBM 1442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via telephone company leased lines, the dial network, and 3505). Dataphone Data Service were reported, as well as some CRT -IBM 3270. directly connected metallic pairs. All host systems were IBM and, with the exception of one 3033, were Systemj The foUowing Paradyne peripheral devices are supported: 370 Model 148's and above. Many ofthe mainframes had Card Readers-300 cpm, 600 cpm, 1000 cpm. Line Printers-JOO lpm, 600 lpm, 900 Ipm, 1200 lpm. 370X or equivalent front ends in addition to the PIX. In Magnetic Tape-7 track, 200/556 bpi, 556/800 bpi, 200/ at least one situation, the PIX replaced a front end. The SOO bpi, NRZ; 9 track, 800 bpi, NRZ, 9-track, 1600 most common operating system reported was OS MVS. bpi, Phase Encoded. IMS and TSO applications were mentioned frequently. VDU77 Display Control and Keyboard/Displays-1920 character screen. CRT Operator Console-I920 character screen. One user accounted for both Poor ratings in the table. His irritation began with the length of time required for installation. Apparently this was the first time that PIX PRICING interfaced with IMS and TSO. New ROM's and The PIX-II and related peripherals can be purchased or are PROM's had to be created, which took several months. available on two-, three- or five-year lease plans. Lease charges For whatever reason, this user had formed the impression include maintenance. The maintenance rates in tJle accom that debugging could be accomplished in days. The IMS panying table are for purchased equipment and are based on Zone 1 service, which is dermed as being within a 5O-mile "'-. and TSO interface problem has obviously been con radius of a Paradyne service center. Approximately 50 U.S. quered because several other users indicated at least metropolitan areas are presently designated as service cen- satisfactory operation with similar installations. 1:> ters. Service outside Zone 1 is provided at a premium. ~

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

1:> The second problem described by the unsatisfied user was glowing terms said, "They have expended a great deal of service. He described Paradyne as having "monumental effort, manpower, and money to get us up." internal communications problems." This user stated that a number of letters describing service problems had been The popularity of the PIX concept speaks for itself by sent, but no satisfaction had been forthcoming. Para sales volumes-over 400 units in two years. Most of the dyne is aware of this situation and has already staffed up, users surveyed consider Paradyne to be a solid firm and made changes, and secured additional capital to solve the are looking forward to new product announcements. problem. One other user said that he would recommend Paradyne also claims substantial improvement in service PIX, but would advise the prospective customer to capability and ready availability of PIX firmware for all "check out the service capability in the area of installa popular applications.D tion."

Some notable quotes from those interviewed include: .. Installation charges are $200 per unit, plus any applicable "Super box, haven't had an outage in the six months travel and expenses outside of Zone 1. Cables are separately we've had it; Concept is great; Definitely a plus outfit." priced. All Paradyne equipment carries a minimum 90-day One person that described Ease of installation in less than warranty.

Monthly Charges* Purchase Monthly 2-Yr. 3-Yr. 5-Yr. Price Maint.

7610 Local Control Unit (LCU) $353 $305 $277 $11,200 $53 7615 LCU Expansion Cabinet 101 88 79 3,400 11 7201 Device Address (except 3270) 21 18 16 680 3 7221 3270 Device Address 12 11 11 580 2 7229 3270 Multiple Address 60 50 45 2,000 5 7210-3 V.35 Digital; 56K8 80 70 64 2,400 16 7231 56KB Multiplexer 225 210 195 5,000 35

7620 Remote Control Unit (RCU) 224 197 180 6,600 49 7625 Remote Control Unit (RCU 224 197 180 6,600 49 (~ includes space for tape drive 7626 Stand-alone Cabinet for 2nd 71 61 56 2,200 16 and subsequent tapes 7205-1 VDU 77 Controller. 1 for 3 32 27 25 1,000 5 devices 7206 Pu nch Controller .. 37 32 29 1,200 5 7207-1 Magnetic Tape Controller; 7 or 130 110 100 3,050 20 9 track, NRZ 7207-2 Magnetic Tape Controller; 9 185 160 145 4,960 25 track, 1600 bpi 7207-3 Magnetic Tape Controller; 245 210 190 6,280 30 NRZlPE, dual density 7208 IBM MUX Channel Extension 41 36 32 1,480 5 7209 IBM MUX Channel Device 22 19 17 800 5 Controller; 1 per 2 devices 7211 Diskette Controller 45 40 35 1,300 10 7212 MUX Range Controller; 45 40 35 1,700 5 16 devices 7212-1 MUX Range Controller; 32 84 69 64 3,200 9 devices 7222 PrintlTape mode switch 10 9 9 350 (optional with 7625, 7626) 7801 CRT Console 134 119 111 3,000 27 7802 Model 77 Visual Display Unit 155 137 127 3,800 27 7809-1 Magnetic Tape Unit 9 track, 265 234 218 6,400 50 800 bpi, NRZ 7809-2 Magnetic Tape Unit; 9 track, 355 313 291 7,000 60 1600 bpi, PE 7809-3 Magnetic Tape Unit; dual 420 360 330 8,000 70 density, 9 track, 800/1600 bpi, NRZlPE 7807-1 Magnetic Tape Unit; 7 track, 275 244 228 6,400 60 200/556 bpi 7807-2 Magnetic Tape Unit; 7 track, 275 244 228 6,400 60 200/800 bpi 7807-3 Magnetic Tape Unit; 7 track 275 244 228 6,400 60 556/800 bpi 7810 Diskette Unit 205 180 165 3,200 40

( LCU or RCU Features

7110 4K Memory Modules 27 23 21 800 3 7111 Memory Expansion; 1 required 24 21 19 800 3 per 7101 above 16K .. JANUARY 1979 © 1979 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, N.J. 08075 REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED C13-679-106 Processors

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

Monthly Charge* Purchase Monthly / 2-Yr. 3-Yr. 5-Yr . Price Maint.

7202 Line Controller; 9.6KB $ 31 $27 $25 $ 880 $7 ... 7202-2 Line Control Module LCM 31 27 25 880 7 7203 Printer Controller 32 27 25 1.000 5 7204 Card Reader Controller 32 27 25 1.000 5 7205 Async. Controller; 1 per 3 32 27 25 1.000 5 devices 7210-1 High Performance Line 80 70 64 2.400 16 Controller; up to 56KB. RS232C 7210-2 High Performance Line 80 70 64 2.400 16 Controller; up to 56KB. WE303 current interface 7223 Line Quality Indicator; 6 6 6 150 0 mandatory on 720217210 7224 96-character set for 8331 27 25 25 500 0 printer PIX Peripherals and Options

8203 300 cpm Card Reader 162 150 140 4.300 55 8206 600 cpm Card Reader 215 190 180 5.000 55 8210 1000 cpm Card Reader 375 335 295 7.000 80 8313 300 Ipm Line Printer 460 415 395 12.000 165 8316 600 Ipm Line Printer 755 660 620 16.000 165 8319 900 Ipm Line Printer 1.035 920 860 25.000 220 8321 1100 Ipm Line Printer 1.315 1.145 1.070 30.000 220 8330 Power Paper Stacker 100 90 85 2.100 10 8331 1220 Ipm Charaband Printer 1.505 1.320 1.120 45.500 220 8351 CDC 2000 Printer 2.250 2.100 2.000 65,000 450

822 9600 bps Modem; point-to- 135 122 115 4,650 10 point 829 Short Haul Modem; 96001 40 35 30 900 10 19.200 bps 832 4800 bps Modem; point-to- 85 80 75 2.775 10 point 804 Voice Adapter Feature 15 15 15 350 3 805 Line Switch Feature 7 7 7 150 1

'Includes monthly maintenance .•

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

Local and Remote Control Units for remote job entry to IBM System 360/370 com puters.

Host computer software requires no modifi cation with the PIX system. This is accom plished by having the Local Control Unit simulate a local peripheral interface to the host computer.

The Local Control Unit, in addition to handling communications lines, can serve as an inter face between a 360/370 and Paradyne card readers and line printers. The Remote Con trol Unit can support IBM card readers/ punches, line printers, and CRT's, and/or support Paradyne card readers, line printers, magnetic tape, and a CRT Operator Console.

Both control units are vendor-programmable and support communication line speeds be tween 4800 bps and 56,000 bps, using SOLC protocol. and can be either full- or half-duplex.

A typical configuration including one com munications line, modems, a remote 600 cpm card reader, a remote 900 Ipm line printer, and a remote magnetic tape drive can be purchased for $79,640 or leased for two years at $2,663 per month, including MANAGEMENT SUMMARY maintenance.

For an IBM 360/370 installation with remote job entry requirements that does not want to get involved with CHARACTERISTICS communications access methods (BT AM, VT AM, TCAM, etc.), Paradyne offers the PIX system. VENDOR: Paradyne Corporation, 8550 U1merton Road, Largo, Florida 33540. Telephone (813) 536-4771.

By simulating a peripheral interface, the PIX Local Con DATE OF ANNOUNCEMENT: March 1976. trol Unit allows the 360/370 to continue to give standard peripheral read and write commands, oblivious of the DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: April 1976. true nature of the attached device. NUMBER DELIVERED TO DATE: Information not available. PIX-II is a significant up-grade in hardware and capa bility over the original system, now called PIX-I. The SERVICED BY: Paradyne Corporation. price differential for typical configurations is such as to CONFIGURATION preclude new installation of the hard-wired PIX-lover the software modifiable PIX-II. (Therefore, PIX I is not The PIX-II Data Communications System provides a trans included in this report.) Included in the upgrade is remote parent interface between an IBM system 360/370 and re support for Paradyne magnetic tape, IBM CRT's, and motely located card readers/punches, line printers, magnetic 56,000 bps transmission speed. The latter enhancement tapes, and CRrs; between two remotely located IBM Sys- tem 360/370's; or between an IBM System 360/370 and local permits two remote CPU's to be linked via a PIX Local Paradyne card readers and line printers. The hardware to ac Control Unit at each end with both computers unaware complish this consists of a microprocessor that Paradyne has of the direct hook-up. tailored into two special purpose controllers; the Local Con- trol Unit (LCU) and the Remote Control Unit (RCU). Both processors have a control panel display, a cassette drive for The Local Control Units can also serve as stand-alone in program loading, a 4K memory module, a minimum of 16K terface between a 360/370 and local Paradyne card Memory Expansion, and provision to attach I/O Con readers and / or line printers. I:> trollers to Ports provided for direct memory access. The ~

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

TABLE 1: I/O Controller Features Required

Control Feature Units Type of line Peripheral Controller Name No. Remarks

LCU Asynchronous Line 4800-9600 bps Line Controller 7202 local to 19.2K bps Synchronous to 56K bps High Performance Line 7201 Controller Paradyne Card Read Card Reader Controller 7204 Paradyne Line Printer Pri nter Controller 7203

RCU Asynchronous Line 4800-9600 bps Line Controller 7202 Asynchronous Line and Paradyne Async. Controller 7205 Supports up to three devices Synchronous to 56K bps High Performance Line 7210 Controller Paradyne Card Reader Card Reader Controller 7204 Paradyne Line Printer Printer Controller 7203 Para dyne MagnetiC Tape Mag Tape Controller (NRZ) 7207-1 One tape drive per controller Mag Tape Controller (P.E.) 7207-2 One tape drive per controller IBM Peripherals IBM Mux. Channel 7209 Up to two devices per controller

I:> The throughput constraints, which can vary dramatically ~ microprocessor is a 16-bit word device, with a 50D-nano depending on the devices and volumes involved, will most second memory cycle time. The average instruction execute likely be reached before the physical expansion limita time is 2.5 microseconds, and the instruction repertoire is 53. A maximum of two memory expansions can be added for a tions are reached. This is probably the reason why Parc total of 32K words (64K bytes). dyne is reluctant to define the physical I/O limitations. It is our educated guess that both control units are limited The Local Control Unit serves as an interface between the to ten ports with the Local Control Unit expandable by a 360/370 and either communication lines and/or local Para dyne card readers and line printers. The LCU is attached to like amount. one port of the 360/370 Byte Multiplexer Channel and is de signed to make the host computer believe a local peripheral While each control unit is programmable, Paradyne is attached to the port. The obvious advantage is that no handles all of the software requirements to the point that communications access method software is required within the host computer to support communications lines. Each the software is as transparent to PIX users as the communications line and peripheral that is to be attached re hardware is transparent to the 360/370. quires its own I/O Controller attachment feature for attach ment to a memory access port. Communications lines PIX-II is truly a modular approach to attaching a long require either external modems or Paradyne LSI internal modems. The number of controllers an LCU can accommo extension cord onto peripherals without host computer date can be expanded with the LCU Expansion Cabinet or programmer involvement. The cost, when volumes are feature. (please see the Management Summary for controller moderate, is nominal: one port on the Byte Multiplexer capacity.) A Device Address feature is required in the LCU Channel serves multiple-peripheral input and output to support the relationship between the physical and logical traffic. location of devices. An LCU can be attached, via communications lines, to one or multiple RCU's and/or LCU's.

USER REACTION The Remote Control Unit can be attached, via communica tions lines, to a LCU; requiring an I/O Line Controller and either an external modem or LSI internal modem. When the In January 1977, Datapro telephoned three PIX-II users peripherals attached to the RCU are Paradyne peripherals, with an average installation life of six months. The 4.0 the appropriate peripheral I/O Controller attachment is re rating on Ease of Installation validated the transparency quired. When the peripherals are IBM peripherals, special controllers are required that will simulate, to the peripheral, of the PIX-II system to the host computer software. All an IBM Byte Multiplexer Channel. (Please see the Manage users, as the ratings below indicate were quite satisfied ment Summary for controller capacity.) with the Paradyne equipment. TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS Excellent Good Fair Poor W A * Communications lines can be either full- or half-duplex. Asynchronous speeds can be from 4800 to 9600 bps, and Overall satisfaction 2 I 0 0 3.7 Synchronous speeds can be up to 56K bps. Table 1 lists the Ease of installation 3 0 0 0 4.0 I/O Controller for each type of line or peripheral attached to Throughput I 2 0 0 3.3 either the LCU or the RCU. Hardware reliability I 2 0 0 3.3 Promptness of mfr's. I 2 0 0 3.3 Paradyne supplies two internal modems: a 9600 bps point maint. to-point and a 4800 bps point-to-point. A voice adapter and Quality of mfr's. 0 3.0 a line switch feature are available for each line. maint. Mfr's. software 2 I 0 0 3.7 SOFTWARE Mfr's. technical support I 2 0 0 3.3 The software in the control units is tailored by Paradyne for * Weighted Average based on 4.0 for Excellent. 1:> the required configuration. The code which must be fully ~

Para dyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

Configuration

7610 Local Control Unit (LCU) I Control Panel Microprocessor I & 7101 I Cassette .LDrive ~---I-r--- 4K Memory I I/O- Controller(2)---- T Module I L ___ -,- ______7110 --1 I I I Communications Lines to RCU's or LCU's I and/or Mem~l) I Local Paradyne Printer Expansion I and/or 7111 I card reader I (1) one 16K Memory expanSion Unit required; maximum of two I permitted. I Local r--"1 (2) LCU I/O Controllers include: Line to 19.2K bps Connection to Device I I High Performance Line to 56K bps IBM 360/370 - I Address I Paradyne Printer Byte Mu Itiplexer ~ 7201 1 Channel Paradyne Card Reader RCU I/O Controllers include: Line to 19.2K bps High Performance Line to 56K bps Paradyne Card Reader Paradyne Printer Paradyne Magnetic Tape (NRZ) Paradyne Magnetic Tape (P.E) Para dyne Async Controller (1 controller per 3 async devices) IBM MUX Channel Device (1 controller per 2 devices)

( Please see Management Summary for physical capacity limits.

Communications line I/O Controllers are attached to Paradyne LSI internal modems or external modems.

7620 Remote Control Unit (RCU)

~ Control Panel Microprocessor I & 7101 I Cassette • Drive f----TI----~--- 4K Memory I L I/O Controller(2) T Module I ---r----- 7110 f- -- .-- .J Communications Lines toLCU

and/or

Attachment to Paradyne Printer, Card Reader, Memory Magnetic Tape, and/or CRT Operator Console expanSion 7111 and/or

Attachment to IBM printer, card reader, card punch, and/or CRT r---...L----· I I/O Controller(2) -...L. I

Only one of the three users attached peripherals to the Local Control Unit. The maximum number of RCU's at resident in memory consists of modules that support each tached to one LCU, one of the users questioned, was type of I/O controller. When more than one of the same type of controller is present, only one copy ofthe module is neces three. One installation with a leased line between the sary to support all of the controllers of that type. Obviously, LCU and the RCU installed a modem switch so that a the amount of memory will be dependent on the number of dial-up line could be used as fall-back to the leased line. p different types of controllers, ~

Paradyne Parallel Interface Extension-II (PIX-II)

The only complaint was from the standpoint of the re PERIPHERALS mote site (RCU) operations personnel. They wanted the The following IBM peripheral devices are supported: ability to interrogate the status of PIX jobs in the host Card Readers-IBM 2501, 2540 (via 2821), 3505. computer. Paradyne is responding to this user with a set Line Printer-IBM 1403, (via 2821). of changes to HASP. a necessary prerequisite to satisfy Card Punch-IBM I 442N2, 2540 (via 2821), 3525 (via that particular installation's request. This response, how 3505). ever, begs the general question, and is counter to the CRT -IBM 3270. prime virtue of PIX-II, the virtue that gave it a 4.0 score The following Paradyne peripheral deviees are supported: for Ease of Installation. Card Readers-300 Cpm, 600 epm, 1000 cpm. Line Printers-300 Ipm, 600 Ipm; 900 Ipm, 1200 Ipm. A PIX-J user we talked to was able to give the remote site Magnetic Tape-7 track, 200/556 bpi, 556/800 bpi, 200/ 800 bpi, NRZ; 9 track, 800 bpi, NRZ. I)..track, 1600 bpi, full remote job control, as well as remote job entry, byas Phase Encoded. signing a fully dedicated Virtual Machine to the remote job system. However, such an approach is costly in terms CRT Operator Console-1920 .character screen. of CPU overhead.D PRICING

The PIX system is available for purchase or on a I-year, 2- year, 3-year, or 5-year lease. In addition to the purchase or rental charge, there is a one-time installation charge for some ~ The host software is unaware of the communication lines or of the components. The monthly rental shown below in foreign peripherals and therefore requires no communica cludes the maintenance for Z.one 1 maintenance. For Zone 2 tions access method such as BT AM, QT AM, VT AM, etc. or 3 add 30 percent or 60 percent, respectively, ofthe Zone 1 The LCU simulation of the Byte Multiplexer /Peripheral in maintenance charge to arrive at the total monthly charge. terface will operate under DOS or OS. Zone 1 is metropolitan areas.

Initial Monthly Lease Purchase Zone 1 Installation 2-yr. 5-yr. Price Maint. Charge

7610 Local Control Unit (LCU) $ 303 $ 247 $11,200 $ 23 $350 7620 Remote Control Unit (RCU) 183 150 6,600 19 350 7101 Microprocessor (8K) for LCU, RCU 131 108 4.600 17 120 7110 4K Memory Module (one per 7101) 24 20 880 2 7111 16K Memory Expansion (lor 2 required per 24 18 800 2 7101) 7115 LCU Expansion Cabinet 95 78 3.400 10 7201 Device Address for LCU 19 15 680 2 I/O Controllers-Communication Lines 7201 Line to 19.2K bps 28 24 880 6 100 7210 High Performance Line to 56K bps 75 63 2,400 15 100 1/0 Controllers-for LCU and RCU Peripherals 7203 Printer 29 24 1,000 4 7204 Card Reader 29 24 1,000 4 I/O Controllers-for RCU only Peripherals 7205 Async. (1 per 3 cjevices) 29 24 1,000 4 7207·1 Magnetic tape, NRZ (1 per device) 115 95 3,050 15 7207-2 Magnetic tape, P.E. (1 per device) 170 140 4,980 20 7208 IBM MUX Channel Extension 39 32 1.480 5 7209 IBM MUX Channel Device (1 per 2 devices) 21 17 800 5 Paradyne Peripherals 7801 CRT Console 125 109 3,000 25 50 7807-1 Magnetic Tape Unit; 7 track, 200/556, 245 213 6,400 45 75 556/800, 2001800 NRZ 7809-1 Magnetic Tape Unit; 9 track, 800 bpi, NRZ 245 213 6,400 45 75 7809-2 Magnetic Tape Unit; 9 track, 1600 bpi, P.E. 330 287 7,000 55 75

8203 300 cpm Card Reader 150 135 4,300 50 50 8206 600 cpm Card Reader 200 175 5,000 50 50 8210 1000 cpm Card Reader 350 290 7,000 75 70

8313 300 Ipm Line Printer 425 380 12,000 150 50 8316 600 Ipm Line Printer 700 605 16,000 150 50 8319 900 Ipm Line Printer 960 840 25,000 200 75 8331 1220 Ipm Charaband Printer 1,400 1,100 45,000 200 75 , ,- Modems \~,. 822 9600 bps Modem (point-to-point) 135 115 4,650 10 832 4800 bps Modem (point-to-point) 85 75 2,775 10 804 Voice Adapter Feature 15 15 350 3 805 Line Switch Feature 7 7 150 1 'Monthly lease charges include Zone 1 Maintenance .•